drug information

Synthetic cannabinoids

Synthetic cannabinoids are chemicals that mimic the effect of THC – one of the ingredients in cannabis. THC is the part of cannabis that gets you ‘high’. These chemicals are added to a mixture of dried plant matter and sold under brand names such as “Kronic”, “Spice”, and “K2”. Such products were developed to be a legal alternative to cannabis, however many synthetic cannabinoids substances are now banned in New Zealand.

  1. What they are

    Synthetic cannabinoids are structurally different from THC (the active component of cannabis) but act in similar ways to affect the cannabinoid system in the brain.

    Synthetic cannabinoids fall into seven major structural groups:

  2. Health effects

    We don’t know much about the health effects of synthetic cannabinoids. Many synthetic cannabinoids have only recently been developed. They have not been approved for human consumption and there is there is very limited information available regarding their short and long-term effects.

  3. Dependence, addiction and overdose risk

    There is limited research evidence around the dependence, addiction and overdose risk from synthetic cannabinoid use.

  4. Law and penalties

    New Zealand

    As at October 2012, 28 synthetic cannabinoids are the subject of Temporary Class Drug Notices. This has resulted in the removal of more than 50 synthetic cannabis products from the New Zealand market.

    Temporary Class Drug Notices are issued under an amendment to the Misuse of Drugs Act. The notices make the import, export, manufacture, sale and supply of any product containing substance listed under the notice illegal.

  5. Drug trends

    Very little research data is available on the use of synthetic cannabinoids in New Zealand. However, high demand for products, rising presentations to emergency departments, increasing reports from health providers and increased marketing and media attention suggest usage rates are increasing.

  6. How to get help

    If you feel you or anyone you know needs help, there are a number of treatment organisations you can contact confidentially.

    DrugHelp is a uniquely New Zealand website for people looking for help with their own or someone else’s drug use. DrugHelp shares the stories, experiences, insight and hope of people who have been there – people who have abused drugs and found a way through.

  7. Links

    A list of relevant links to further information and resources about synthetic cannabinoids:

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