Detection and quantitation of the semi-synthetic cannabinoid hexahydrocannabinol in seized samples from Scottish prisons

The dynamic new psychoactive substance market is constantly evolving and adapting as new legislative regulations are established. The prevalence of new psychoactive substances within the Scottish prison Service has been well documented, with this unique illicit drug ecosystem facilitating the detection of compounds often preceding their identification in forensic toxicology samples. This study provides an overview of two case samples seized from Scottish prisons between November 2023 and April 2024, where the semi-synthetic cannabinoid, hexahydrocannabinol, was identified following a quantitative gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis. This semi-synthetic cannabinoid was detected alongside other traditional cannabinoids including cannabidiol, cannabinol, Δ ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol, and Δ ⁸-tetrahydrocannabinol. Variability of the ratio between hexahydrocannabinol isomers was observed in the samples, as well as variability in the concentrations of other cannabinoids. This highlights the importance of quantitative analysis, as distinct effects can be expected from the variable sample compositions. In conclusion, this study marks the first detections of the semi-synthetic cannabinoid, hexahydrocannabinol, within the Scottish prison estate, demonstrating its emergence within that illicit drug market.