Ms Higgins has called for an “awareness and education campaign” from the HSE surrounding the dangers of cannabis jellies and associated products.
“Cannabinoids are a group of chemical compounds which can be extracted from the cannabis plant and can be used in oil and edible form. The most prominent cannabinoid is referred to as Tetra-Hydro-Cannabinoids [THC], which is responsible for the psychoactive effects commonly associated with cannabis use and results in a euphoric high experienced by users,” said Ms Higgins.
Synthetic cannabinoids can greatly increase the risks of a drug emergency because they produce more intense adverse effects. According to the HSE, their use has caused many serious poisonings, mass poisonings and deaths internationally in recent years. Ms Higgins highlighted that packaging on illegal edibles is often bright and colourful and can be mistaken for sweets and, in some cases, can almost replicate a well-known existing brand with slight variations.“What is concerning is how easily these illegal edibles can be obtained as they are available for sale through social media channels through word of mouth or via text message.