JWH-020

Synthetic cannabinoid

CaptionSynonyms

JWH-020

Drug Information
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Identifiers ATC Code DrugBank KEGG ChEBI ChEMBL		Chemical Data N Molecular Weight

JWH-020 is a synthetic cannabinoid that acts as a selective agonist for 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-020 is chemically classified as a naphthoylindole, which is a type of synthetic cannabinoid. Its chemical structure is characterized by a naphthalene group attached to an indole core. The IUPAC name for JWH-020 is (6aR,10aR)-3-(1-naphthalenylmethyl)-1,2,3,6,6a,7,10,10a-octahydro-6,6,9-trimethyl-6H-dibenzo[b,d]pyran. The molecular formula is C24H26O, and it has a molecular weight of 330.47 g/mol.

Pharmacology

JWH-020 acts as a selective agonist for the CB1 receptor, which is one of the two main cannabinoid receptors in the human body. The CB1 receptor is primarily found in the central nervous system, and its activation is associated with the psychoactive effects of cannabinoids. JWH-020 has a high affinity for the CB1 receptor, which means it can effectively bind to and activate this receptor, mimicking the effects of naturally occurring cannabinoids like THC.

Synthesis

The synthesis of JWH-020 involves the reaction of 1-naphthoyl chloride with 1-pentylindole in the presence of a base. This reaction forms the naphthoylindole structure that characterizes JWH-020. The synthesis process is similar to that of other compounds in the JWH series, which were developed to study the structure-activity relationships of cannabinoids.

Legal Status

The legal status of JWH-020 varies by country. In many jurisdictions, it is classified as a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and lack of accepted medical use. In the United States, JWH-020 is not specifically listed as a controlled substance, but it may be considered illegal under the Federal Analogue Act if intended for human consumption.

Research and Applications

JWH-020, like other synthetic cannabinoids, has been used in scientific research to better understand the endocannabinoid system and the effects of cannabinoid receptor activation. However, due to its psychoactive properties and potential for abuse, its use is generally restricted to laboratory settings.

Health Effects and Risks

The health effects of JWH-020 are not well-documented, but it is believed to have similar effects to other synthetic cannabinoids, which can include tachycardia, anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations. Long-term use may lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Also see

• Synthetic cannabinoids
• Cannabinoid receptor
• JWH-018
• Endocannabinoid system