10-OH-HHC: The new HHC?
The trade in HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) and many other cannabinoids was banned in Germany on June 26, 2024 as part of the 5th Ordinance of the NpSG. As a result, new cannabinoids have appeared on the market that are intended to replace these cannabinoids. Time will tell whether this will succeed.
With the following article , we would like to inform you about the current state of knowledge of the new derivative 10-OH-HHC. It is intended to provide a deeper understanding of 10-OH-HHC by examining its chemical structure, its pharmacological effects, its metabolism and its potential applications.
What is 10-OH-HHC?
10-OH-HHC or 10-hydroxy-hexahydrocannabinol is an oxidation product of HHC. It is not a typical cannabinoid, but rather a metabolite produced by the liver. When HHC (hydrogenated THC) is exposed to the action of the liver enzyme P450, a hydroxyl group (-OH) is added to the tenth position of HHC, transforming the chemical structure to form 10-OH-HHC.
In its pure form, 10-OH-HHC is a yellow, syrupy, honey-like liquid. Initial studies already indicate that 10-OH-HHC can enable unique interactions with the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2.
Is 10-OH-HHC a new development?
No, the identification of 10-OH-HHC dates back to 1980. Raphaél Méchouam's team at the Israeli Institute for Biological Research discovered 10-OH-HHC and found that the compound had a significant psychoactive effect at a dose of just 0.5 mg/kg. However, no further studies were carried out at that time.
It was not until 2015 that 10-OH-HHC was fully isolated by a team of researchers at the University of Mississippi. The study focused on the antimicrobial properties of hydrogenated HHC derivatives such as 10-OH-HHC.
Until March 2023, 10-OH-HHC remained under the radar of all laboratories specializing in the development and production of semi-synthetic cannabinoids. However, after the ban on numerous semi-synthetic cannabinoids, laboratories have become interested in it again.
What effect does 10-OH-HHC have?
The pharmacological effects of 10-OH-HHC are still the subject of ongoing research. Initial results indicate cannabimimetic properties similar to those of THC. These effects include influencing pain perception, appetite and mood. However, due to its unique chemical structure, 10-OH-HHC may also offer special benefits. Preliminary studies suggest that it has a different affinity for cannabinoid receptors, which could lead to specific therapeutic effects. In addition, 10-OH-HHC may have better tolerability and fewer side effects compared to other cannabinoids.
Users often report a significant mood lift, accompanied by feelings of euphoria and well-being. The compound induces intense relaxation without the abrupt effects of other cannabinoids, and promotes creativity, which can be particularly helpful for tasks that require imagination or brainstorming. Additionally, the inhalable form provides rapid physical pain relief and increases appetite, similar to other cannabinoids. Many also report improved sleep quality, which could be particularly beneficial for people with insomnia.
A key factor in the clinical efficacy of 10-OH-HHC is its bioavailability, i.e. the proportion of the substance that enters the bloodstream and can exert its effects there. When ingested orally, 10-OH-HHC, like many cannabinoids, undergoes first-pass metabolism, whereby a significant portion of the compound is broken down before it enters the systemic circulation. This metabolic process often results in the formation of 10-carboxy-HHC, an inactive form of the compound. Alternative forms of consumption such as vaporization or sublingual administration can partially bypass this first-pass metabolism, allowing for more direct absorption and potentially greater efficacy.
Conclusion
The therapeutic potential of 10-OH-HHC is promising and deserves further scientific investigation. Possible applications include the treatment of chronic pain, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders and certain neurodegenerative diseases. Due to its unique chemical structure and potential interactions with the endocannabinoid system, 10-OH-HHC could offer innovative treatment options that differ in tolerability and efficacy from the cannabinoids currently used.
To realize the full potential of 10-OH-HHC, rigorous clinical trials are needed to investigate the safety, efficacy, and optimal administration practices of this compound. The development of specific formulations such as capsules, oils, and topical products could help further maximize the therapeutic benefits of 10-OH-HHC and enable tailored treatment approaches.
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