"I think it's a matter of weeks," the minister told franceinfo when asked about a possible ban on HHC.

The latter is a molecule synthesized artificially from natural cannabis extracts: we speak of semi-synthesis.

The molecule has been known for a long time by scientists but, in recent months, the health authorities of different countries - Europe and the United States - note that it is increasingly marketed on the internet or in physical shops.

Its effects are poorly known but addictologists tend to consider them comparable to those of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the substance at the heart of the psychoactive effects of cannabis.

Unlike HHC products, HHC-based products are not prohibited for sale or consumption. It is found, among other things, in cannabis flowers, on which it has been vaporized, in e-liquids for electronic cigarettes, in flavored confectionery.

"They are taking advantage of a loophole (...) of classification," explained Mr. Braun "They are not classified as narcotics. I honestly think they will be quickly now."

"There is a hole in the racket that must be filled quickly to no longer have this free sale which is quite abnormal," concluded the minister, referring the decision to an upcoming opinion of the drug agency (ANSM).

This opinion of the ANSM is expected "during the month of June", said the cabinet of François Braun to AFP.

French Health Minister Francois Braun leaves the Elysee Palace in Paris, April 26, 2023 © Bertrand GUAY / AFP/Archives

The rise of HHC, an "emerging" phenomenon, represents "potential health and social risks", noted the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) in a report published in mid-April on this new molecule.

Appearing on the drug market in the United States at the end of 2021, HHC was first spotted in Europe in May 2022, during a seizure by customs officers, traces the observatory. Eight months later, it had been identified in more than 70% of EU member states.

Some European countries (Finland, Poland or Austria) have defined it as a psychoactive substance and banned it.

Since HHC was first identified in Europe, two other synthetic cannabis have been detected on the continent: HHC-acetate and hexahydrocannabiphorol (HHC-P).

© 2023 AFP