JWH-004

JWH-004 is a synthetic cannabinoid that acts as a potent agonist of the cannabinoid receptors. It is part of the naphthoylindole family of compounds and was first synthesized by John W. Huffman and his team at Clemson University.

Chemical Structure and Properties

JWH-004 is chemically classified as a naphthoylindole, which is characterized by a naphthalene group attached to an indole core. The IUPAC name for JWH-004 is 1-Pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole. It has a molecular formula of C24H23NO and a molecular weight of 341.45 g/mol.

The compound is typically found as a white powder and is soluble in organic solvents. It has a melting point of 85-87 °C and a boiling point of approximately 450 °C.

Pharmacology

JWH-004 acts as a full agonist at both the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, with a higher affinity for the CB1 receptor. This receptor is primarily found in the central nervous system and is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabinoids.

The binding affinity of JWH-004 to the CB1 receptor is similar to that of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. However, JWH-004 is a synthetic compound and may have different pharmacokinetic properties compared to naturally occurring cannabinoids.

Legal Status

The legal status of JWH-004 varies by country. In many jurisdictions, it is classified as a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and lack of medical use. It is often included in legislation targeting synthetic cannabinoids and "designer drugs."

Potential Risks and Side Effects

As with other synthetic cannabinoids, the use of JWH-004 can lead to a range of adverse effects. These may include:

• Tachycardia (increased heart rate)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Anxiety and paranoia
• Hallucinations
• Nausea and vomiting

Due to the variability in potency and purity of synthetic cannabinoids, users may experience unpredictable effects, which can be more severe than those associated with natural cannabis.

Research and Applications

JWH-004, like other synthetic cannabinoids, has been used in scientific research to study the endocannabinoid system and the effects of cannabinoid receptor activation. However, due to its potential for abuse and adverse effects, its use is limited to controlled laboratory settings.

Also see

• Synthetic cannabinoids
• Cannabinoid receptor
• John W. Huffman
• CB1 receptor
• CB2 receptor