HHC

The following information was compiled in December 2024 and is subject to change as new research is conducted and as new information becomes available:

Description: HHC is classified as a semi-synthetic cannabinoid and is structurally similar to known phytocannabinoids (e.g., delta-9-THC). HHC has two stereoisomers, 9R-HHC and 9S-HHC, both of which have been identified in drug materials and biological specimens in many countries since recreational emergence in 2022.^1,2,3,4 HHC was identified in October 2024 by our laboratory and confirmed using standard reference material.

Sample Source: Forensic Science Network  (Columbia, SC)

Sample Appearance: Blood specimen

Pharmacology: In vitro data available show that HHC is an agonist at the CB₁ receptor with potency less than that of delta-9-THC.^1,5  9R-HHC is more potent than its stereoisomer, 9S-HHC.⁵

Toxicology: HHC has been identified in four toxicology cases to date at the CFSRE.

Drug Materials: HHC has been detected in drug materials at the CFSRE.

Demographics / Geographics: Toxicology specimens positive for HHC originated from South Carolina and New York. HHC was identified alone and alongside traditional drugs (e.g., methamphetamine, fentanyl, delta-9-THC).

Legal Status: HHC is not currently a scheduled drug in the United States.

Class:

Cannabinoid

Appearance:

Blood

Formula:

C21H32O2

MW:

316.5

[M+]:

316

[M+H]+:

317.2475

IUPAC:

6,6,9-trimethyl-3-pentyl-6a,7,8,9,10,10a-hexahydrobenzo[c]chromen-1-ol

Report Date:

December 18, 2024