JWH-182

JWH-182 is a synthetic cannabinoid from the naphthoylindole family. It acts as a full agonist at both the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, with a binding affinity of 0.58nM at CB1 and 0.21nM at CB2. JWH-182 is one of the cannabinoids identified in herbal incense blends, and is illegal in some countries.

Chemistry

JWH-182 is a member of the naphthoylindole family of synthetic cannabinoids. It is structurally related to other synthetic cannabinoids such as JWH-018 and JWH-073. The compound is named after the initials of its discoverer, John W. Huffman, a chemist at Clemson University who first synthesized these compounds in the 1990s.

Pharmacology

JWH-182 acts as a full agonist at both the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. The binding affinity of JWH-182 is 0.58nM at CB1 and 0.21nM at CB2. This makes it one of the most potent synthetic cannabinoids known. The effects of JWH-182 are similar to those of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active ingredient in cannabis, but it is much more potent.

Legal status

JWH-182 is illegal in many countries, including the United States, where it is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance. It is also illegal in many European countries, including the United Kingdom, where it is classified as a Class B drug.

Health effects

The health effects of JWH-182 are not well studied. However, like other synthetic cannabinoids, it is likely to have similar side effects to cannabis, including euphoria, relaxation, altered perception, and potential negative effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and psychosis. There have also been reports of physical health problems associated with synthetic cannabinoids, including heart problems and seizures.

See also

• Synthetic cannabinoids
• Cannabinoid receptor
• John W. Huffman