Growing health threat from unregulated synthetic products, say local FG politicians

Senator Gareth Scahill and Fine Gael Councillors Valerie Duffy and Ruth Conboy have called for greater public awareness and stronger regulation of synthetic cannabinoid products being sold in vape form, following serious concerns raised by the HSE. The Roscommon representatives emphasised the urgent need to distinguish between legitimate nicotine vaping and a potentially much more dangerous market involving unregulated synthetic and semi-synthetic cannabinoids.

Recent testing by the HSE Emerging Drug Trends Laboratory found high-risk cannabinoids in vapes and vape liquids from shops and the illicit market. Of 76 products analysed this year, 28 contained HHC or related semi-synthetic cannabinoids, eight contained potent synthetic cannabinoids, and ten contained acetate compounds, which can be associated with lung disease. The HSE has warned of serious effects including severe intoxication, loss of consciousness, withdrawal, and psychosis.

Senator Scahill expressed concern about the exposure of children and teenagers to these substances, noting that products can be mislabelled as CBD while containing dangerous compounds. Cllr Duffy, a member of the HSE West Regional Health Forum, said the issue needs to be addressed locally as well as nationally, with plans to raise it within Roscommon County Council. Cllr Conboy highlighted that appealing packaging and flavours can make vaping appear harmless to teenagers.

The representatives stressed that legitimate nicotine vape retailers should not be unfairly associated with the illegal trade, but warned that rogue operators must be identified and shut down. While acknowledging ongoing national efforts to strengthen nicotine vape regulation, Senator Scahill cautioned that legislation must keep pace with the rapidly evolving synthetic drug market, as manufacturers can alter compounds and introduce new products very quickly.

(Source：roscommonherald.ie)