JWH-094

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JWH-094 is a synthetic cannabinoid that acts as a potent agonist at 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 in the 1990s. JWH-094 is primarily used in scientific research to study the endocannabinoid system and its effects on the body.

Chemical Structure and Properties

JWH-094 has the chemical formula C₄H₂₃NO and a molecular weight of 341.45 g/mol. The compound is characterized by a naphthoyl group attached to an indole core, with a pentyl chain at the nitrogen atom of the indole. This structure is similar to other synthetic cannabinoids, such as JWH-018 and JWH-073, which also belong to the naphthoylindole class.

Pharmacology

JWH-094 acts as a full agonist at the CB1 receptor and CB2 receptor, which are part of the endocannabinoid system. These receptors are involved in a variety of physiological processes, including pain sensation, mood regulation, and appetite control. The binding affinity of JWH-094 to these receptors is similar to that of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis.

Legal Status

The legal status of JWH-094 varies by country. In some 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-094 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-094 is primarily used in research settings to study the effects of synthetic cannabinoids on the endocannabinoid system. It has been used in various studies to understand the pharmacological properties of cannabinoid receptor agonists and their potential therapeutic applications. However, due to its potency and potential for adverse effects, JWH-094 is not approved for medical use in humans.

Safety and Toxicity

The safety profile of JWH-094 is not well-established, as it has not been extensively studied in humans. However, synthetic cannabinoids in general have been associated with a range of adverse effects, including tachycardia, hypertension, anxiety, and psychosis. The use of JWH-094 outside of a controlled research environment is not recommended due to these potential risks.

Also see

• Synthetic cannabinoids
• JWH-018
• JWH-073
• Cannabinoid receptor
• Endocannabinoid system