Dissociative-like Neurotoxicity Following Analytically Confirmed Exposure To Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC).

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Pharmacology
• Cannabinoid Research

Background:

• Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a semi-synthetic derivative of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
• HHC has recently emerged in unregulated cannabis markets, often found in edible products.
• Its presence in illicit products raises concerns regarding user safety and potential health risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of analytically confirmed Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) exposure.
• To describe the clinical presentation and multi-system toxicity associated with HHC ingestion.
• To emphasize the dangers posed by unregulated psychoactive substances.

Main Methods:

• A case report of a 32-year-old male presenting with acute symptoms after consuming an HHC-containing gummy.
• Clinical examination, symptom assessment, and supportive management.
• Serum analysis to identify the presence and isomers of HHC, excluding other substances.

Main Results:

• The patient exhibited nausea, vomiting, slurred speech, numbness, confusion, tachycardia, and tachypnoea, indicative of a dissociative state.
• Serum analysis confirmed the presence of 9R-HHC and 9S-HHC isomers.
• Symptoms resolved within eight hours with supportive care, with no other psychoactive substances detected.

Conclusions:

• HHC, particularly the 9R-HHC isomer, is psychoactive and rapidly absorbed.
• HHC exposure can lead to multi-system toxicity, including significant gastrointestinal and dissociative neurological effects.
• This case underscores the potential dangers of unregulated HHC products and the need for consumer awareness.