Synthetic Cannabinoids, the largest and most diverse group of novel psychoactive substances

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) constitute the largest category of Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPSs), primarily prevalent among young adults and marginalized demographics such as the homeless, incarcerated individuals, those with dual disorders, and poly-substance abusers. Over the last decade, their consumption has increasingly been linked to health issues and fatalities. There is growing evidence suggesting that SC usage might significantly contribute to the onset and continuation of psychosis in both individuals with no prior mental health issues and those already vulnerable. However, due to the recent emergence of SC products and limited scientific literature, it is challenging to accurately assess the risk of developing psychosis after using SCs. Additionally, the increasing probability of concurrent substance use, commonly observed in SC users, and the lack of adequate toxicological screening tools pose substantial obstacles to understanding the direct role of SCs in inducing psychotic disturbances. Moreover, the considerable chemical and pharmacological diversity among SC compounds further complicates the interpretation of existing, largely anecdotal, evidence.