Laboratory tests detected six different cannabinoids in a single e-cigarette liquid seized during a joint inspection by authorities.
The Cyprus National Addictions Authority has warned the public about e-cigarette liquids and herbal products containing potentially dangerous substances, some of which may have unpredictable effects on users.
The warning follows an inspection conducted in cooperation with the Cyprus Police, Pharmaceutical Services and the Health Inspectorate. Authorities seized e-cigarette liquids, herbal material found in cigarettes and other herbal products for laboratory examination.
Tests identified several new cannabinoids, with six different types detected in a single e-cigarette liquid, according to the Authority.
Officials expressed concern that products which consumers might consider relatively harmless could contain powerful psychoactive substances without their knowledge. The actual composition of these products may also differ from what users expect.
The health effects of many newly identified cannabinoids have not been sufficiently studied, while the consequences of combining several substances remain unknown.
The Authority warned that consuming such products could cause a rapid heartbeat, extreme drowsiness, confusion, anxiety and panic attacks. In more serious cases, users could experience poisoning or psychotic symptoms.
The public has been advised to avoid products with unknown ingredients and refrain from combining them with alcohol or other drugs. People are also urged not to drive after consuming such substances.
Anyone who feels unwell after using a potentially affected product should seek medical attention and inform healthcare professionals about what they have taken. Keeping the product packaging may also help medical staff identify the substances involved.
The Authority stressed that emergency services should be contacted on 112 if severe symptoms develop.
If someone loses consciousness, experiences breathing difficulties or suffers seizures, an ambulance should be called immediately. They should not be left alone while waiting for medical assistance.
The warning follows an inspection conducted in cooperation with the Cyprus Police, Pharmaceutical Services and the Health Inspectorate. Authorities seized e-cigarette liquids, herbal material found in cigarettes and other herbal products for laboratory examination.
Tests identified several new cannabinoids, with six different types detected in a single e-cigarette liquid, according to the Authority.
Officials expressed concern that products which consumers might consider relatively harmless could contain powerful psychoactive substances without their knowledge. The actual composition of these products may also differ from what users expect.
The health effects of many newly identified cannabinoids have not been sufficiently studied, while the consequences of combining several substances remain unknown.
The Authority warned that consuming such products could cause a rapid heartbeat, extreme drowsiness, confusion, anxiety and panic attacks. In more serious cases, users could experience poisoning or psychotic symptoms.
The public has been advised to avoid products with unknown ingredients and refrain from combining them with alcohol or other drugs. People are also urged not to drive after consuming such substances.
Anyone who feels unwell after using a potentially affected product should seek medical attention and inform healthcare professionals about what they have taken. Keeping the product packaging may also help medical staff identify the substances involved.
The Authority stressed that emergency services should be contacted on 112 if severe symptoms develop.
If someone loses consciousness, experiences breathing difficulties or suffers seizures, an ambulance should be called immediately. They should not be left alone while waiting for medical assistance.
