Synthetic cannabinoids in Germany are making headlines after a groundbreaking study published in Drug Testing and Analysis by Hundertmark et al. (2025). This study lifts the veil on the alarming growth and complexity of these substances in products seized by authorities, highlighting potential health risks and regulatory gaps.

Curious about what these findings mean for consumers, policymakers, and communities? Read on for a closer look at the evidence, the substances involved, and what might happen next.

The Rise of Synthetic Cannabinoids in Germany

Scientists engineer synthetic cannabinoids, also known as SSCs (semi-synthetic cannabinoids), as derivatives of natural cannabis compounds. While cannabis plants famously contain Delta-9 THC (the “high”-inducing component) and CBD (a non-intoxicating compound), today’s synthetic variants add new layers to the drug landscape.

Germany, like many countries, is grappling with a sharp increase in marijuana products containing these synthetic substances. Recent Germany marijuana seizures show just how far-reaching this issue has become.

Study Highlights from German Marijuana Seizures

A major 2025 study analysed 79 samples containing SSCs from 20 separate marijuana seizures throughout Germany. The researchers examined numerous products, ranging from marijuana flower and resins to gummies and vape liquids, for the presence of common and obscure cannabinoids.

Key Findings in the Study

• HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol): Present in 100% of samples inspected.
• H4CBD: Found in 52.5% of all samples.
• HHC-O: Detected in 48.8%.
• HHCP: Identified in 43.8%.
• Other SSCs: HHCP-O (36.3%), THC-O (13.8%), CBN-O (11.3%), and THCP-O (8.8%).

The wide variety of substances confirms that synthetic cannabinoids in Germany span a whole group of chemical derivatives rather than being limited to just one popular variant.

Synthetic Cannabinoids in Germany: These compounds are not typically found together in the natural plant, so their presence in seized marijuana signals deliberate addition during production or distribution.

Why Are Synthetic Cannabinoids in Confiscated Products?

The development of SSCs is partly driven by changing drug laws and consumer demand. Notably, Delta-8 THC and HHC (both first noted in the United States) blazed the trail for other, more recent SSCs.

Many synthetic cannabinoids in Germany are created to work around existing drug laws, with manufacturers producing slightly modified compounds not yet listed as controlled substances. This causes two main problems:

• Lack of Regular Testing: Unregulated SSCs often skip thorough testing for strength and safety.
• Mislabelled Products: Buyers may think they’re using natural marijuana, unaware of the extra SSCs and their unpredictable effects.

Health and Legal Risks for Users

The Hundertmark et al. study warns about the risks connected to mislabelled and unregulated products. When a product contains a blend of different synthetic cannabinoids, users cannot know the dose or the combined impact on their health.

According to the study, “the unawareness of constituents in SSC-containing products due to mislabeling in combination with strongly fluctuating HHC contents or so-called ‘blends’ containing SSC-mixtures can pose a risk to consumers.”

Potential health concerns include:

• Intense or atypical psychoactive effects
• Higher risk of panic, anxiety, or cardiovascular symptoms
• Issues for those with underlying health problems
• Unpredictable reactions if SSCs interact with other medications or drugs

Synthetic Cannabinoids and the EU Response

The rapid rise and evolution of synthetic cannabinoids in Germany have forced swift changes in policy. Since 2023, several EU countries have moved to ban HHC and many of its derivatives. German authorities, like their European peers, are stepping up monitoring and considering new bans as product formulations shift quickly.

A Look Across the Atlantic

The study also notes parallels with the United States, where loopholes in the Farm Bill have allowed many semi-synthetic cannabinoids to be developed, marketed, and sold. These American trends now appear to be mirrored in Germany and across the EU, suggesting this is a global challenge.

Source: The Drug Report