5F-ADB

5F-ADB (also known as 5F-MDMB-PINACA) is a synthetic cannabinoid that is commonly used in designer drugs. It is a potent agonist of the CB1 receptor, with a binding affinity of 0.14nM, making it one of the most potent synthetic cannabinoids available.

History[edit | edit source]

5F-ADB was first identified in November 2014 from post-mortem samples taken from an individual who had died after using a product containing this substance. Subsequent testing identified 5F-ADB to have been present in a total of ten people who had died from unexplained drug overdoses in Japan between September 2014 and December 2014. 5F-ADB is believed to be extremely potent based on the very low levels detected in tissue samples, and appears to be significantly more toxic than earlier synthetic cannabinoid drugs that had previously been sold.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

As with all synthetic cannabinoids, 5F-ADB does not actually contain any cannabis but instead contains synthetic cannabinoids that mimic the effects of natural cannabis. It is a potent agonist of the CB1 receptor, which is found primarily in the brain. This is the same receptor that THC, the main psychoactive component of cannabis, binds to.

Legal Status[edit | edit source]

In the United States, 5F-ADB is a Schedule I controlled substance. It is also illegal in many other countries, including Japan, where it was first identified.

Health Risks[edit | edit source]

The use of 5F-ADB has been associated with multiple deaths and severe illnesses. Symptoms of 5F-ADB intoxication include severe agitation and anxiety, fast heart rate, high blood pressure, nausea and vomiting, muscle spasms, seizures, and hallucinations. In severe cases, it can cause respiratory failure and death.