HHCPO: Effects, risks and legal status of the new cannabinoid

Brief summary & important information about HHCPO

HHCPO (hexahydrocannabiphorol-O-acetate) is a new, A semi-synthetic cannabinoid that is gaining increasing attention due to its strong psychoactive effects. Unlike natural cannabinoids, it is produced in a laboratory through a multi-stage chemical process and is not extracted directly from the hemp plant. The substance is considered significantly more potent than conventional THC or HHC.

The legal situation is evolving rapidly: In France, HHCPO has been classified as illegal since June 3, 2024, and other EU countries have taken similar steps or are preparing to do so. In Germany, the legal assessment is still under development. Furthermore, as of 2024, there are hardly any clinical studies on safety, long-term effects, and correct dosage – its use is therefore associated with particular risks.

Important NOTE: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical or legal advice. It does not constitute an endorsement of any product. Individuals with health concerns or legal questions should consult appropriate professionals. This comprehensive article will take approximately 15-20 minutes to read.

What is HHCPO (hexahydrocannabiphorol-O-acetate)?

HHCPO is a semi-synthetic, acetylated derivative of HHCP or HHC. The substance is chemically related to THC and is produced from intermediates originally derived from CBD. The molecule has the molecular formula C25H38O3 and differs from its precursors by a specific chemical modification – acetylation.

Unlike CBD or THC, HHCPO does not occur naturally in the cannabis plant. It is a synthetic cannabinoid produced exclusively in a laboratory. While this manufacturing process allows for a certain consistency in product quality, it also raises questions about safety and purity, which are less relevant with naturally occurring cannabinoids.

Compared to more well-known cannabinoids, HHCPO can be classified as follows: THC is the most well-known psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD is non-intoxicating and often used for relaxation, HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) is a hydrogenated form of THC, and HHCP is its precursor with an extended side chain. HHCPO is based on HHCP and acquires additional properties through acetylation. Alternative names such as "HHCP-O" or various fictitious names appear on the market, sometimes used to circumvent prohibitions.

Chemical origin and production of HHCPO

The synthesis of HHCPO follows a multi-step process that typically begins with CBD from industrial hemp. First, CBD undergoes isomerization and hydrogenation to produce HHC. This is followed by conversion to HHCP, before acetylation in the final step yields the final HHCPO molecule.

What do these chemical terms actually mean?

Chemical process	Description	Effect on the molecule
Hydrogenation	Addition of hydrogen atoms to the molecular structure	Increases stability and saturation
Acetylation	Addition of an acetyl group (acylation)	Improves fat solubility and absorption
Isomerization	Restructuring of the molecular structure	Changes bonding properties

Acetylation is the crucial step that distinguishes HHCPO from HHCP. The addition of the acetyl group theoretically increases the compound's stability as well as its ability to penetrate cell membranes. This could explain why users perceive HHCPO as more potent.

Several laboratory methods exist for the production of this product, differing in the catalysts, solvents, and reaction conditions used. The quality of the final product depends significantly on these factors. Reputable manufacturers conduct residue tests for solvents and heavy metals and provide certificates of analysis (COAs). Without such data, an assessment of the product's quality is impossible. Product safety practically impossible.

Effects of HHCPO according to user reports

The following descriptions are primarily based on consumer testimonials from forums, online shops, and social media from the period 2023–2024. Clinical studies on the effects of HHCPO do not currently exist.

Users report typical psychoactive effects often compared to THC: altered perception, more intense sensory experiences, and a pronounced feeling of being "high." Many describe sensations of euphoria and deep relaxation. The effects are said to be significantly stronger and longer-lasting than with HHC. Some consumers compare the intensity to strong THC or even rate it higher—although individual experience varies considerably.

Users report potentially desirable effects including stress reduction, easier sleep onset, and increased well-being. Some report increased appetite or a pleasant feeling of physical heaviness. However, these descriptions should be understood as subjective experiences and not as proven medical effects. The influence of expectations, product quality, and individual tolerance on these reports cannot be assessed.

One noteworthy aspect is dose sensitivity: according to available information, the calming and sleep-inducing effects reverse at excessively high doses. Instead of relaxation, stimulating or counterproductive effects can then occur – an important reason for particular caution when dosing.

Risks, side effects and unknown long-term consequences

The risks of HHCPO are difficult to assess due to a lack of scientific research. However, users describe a number of acute side effects that should be taken seriously:

Frequently mentioned acute side effects:

• Rapid heartbeat and increased blood pressure

• Anxiety or panic attacks

• Disorientation and confusion

• Nausea and discomfort

• Dry mouth and red eyes

• Pronounced drowsiness

Since no long-term studies exist, potential chronic risks cannot be reliably assessed. These include possible psychological dependence, effects on brain development in young users, and long-term effects on the cardiovascular system. The scientific basis for anything beyond anecdotal reports is simply lacking.

Certain groups of people are particularly at risk. Adolescents and young adults whose brains are still developing, pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as people with cardiovascular diseases or pre-existing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety disorders or psychoses should under no circumstances consume HHCPO.

The increased potency of HHCPO significantly raises the risk of overdose and so-called "bad trips." Intense anxiety, paranoia, and loss of control can occur—especially in inexperienced users who have no way of predicting their reaction to the substance. These reports from the user community should be considered a warning.

Legal status of HHCPO in Germany, France and the EU

The legal status of HHCPO is constantly evolving and requires ongoing monitoring. In France, HHCPO was classified as illegal by the competent authority (ANSM) on June 3, 2024. The ban covers production, trade, possession, and consumption.

Since 2023/2024, several EU countries have gradually incorporated HHC and its derivatives into their narcotics laws:

country	status	note
France	Illegal since 06/2024	Complete ban
Austria	Forbidden	Entry into the SMG
Lithuania	Forbidden	-
Latvia	Forbidden	-
Bulgaria	Forbidden	-
Romania	Forbidden	-
Czech Republic	Restricted	with transitional periods
Germany	In transition	Tendency towards restriction

In Germany (as of the end of 2024), the situation is complex. The New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) and the Narcotics Act (BtMG) form the legal framework. The trend is clearly towards a restrictive classification of newly emerging semi-synthetic cannabinoids. Authorities can issue warnings and temporary bans at short notice.

An important point: HHCPO products are sometimes advertised in the context of CBD with reference to THC limits (0.2% or 0.3%). However, this does not change the possibility of a ban on the active ingredient HHCPO itself. The THC content is irrelevant for the legalization of HHCPO.

The clear recommendation is: Always check the current state of national legislation. Official government websites and the Federal Gazette are reliable sources. If in doubt, legal advice should be sought before considering a sale or purchase.

Safer use & dosage instructions (if consumed despite risks)

From a precautionary perspective, the use of HHCPO is discouraged. This section, however, offers harm-reduction-oriented guidance for those who choose to use it despite the known risks.

Dosage recommendations (without medical validation):

The starting dose should be very low – well below 10 mg of HHCPO per dose. A slow, cautious increase is only advisable if demonstrably good tolerability is established. Some suppliers state a daily upper limit of 50 mg for all cannabinoids, including HHCPO. However, this figure is not medically validated and should not be considered a safe limit.

Combining HHCPO with other substances is particularly dangerous. Alcohol, sedatives, other potent cannabinoids, or illegal substances can cause unpredictable interactions. The effects may be amplified in unforeseen ways.

Practical safety rules for consumption:

1. Never be alone the first time you use it – a sober, trusted person should be present.

2. No driving or operating machinery during or after the effects have worn off.

3. Allow plenty of time – the effect can last for hours.

4. Do not take before exams, work, or in unsafe environments.

5. Have water and snacks ready.

6. Choose a quiet, familiar environment

Product forms of HHCPO and quality criteria

HHCPO is offered in various product forms that have become established in the market:

• Vapes and cartridges: Faster onset of action through inhalation, shorter duration of action

• Resins and hashish: Concentrated form, often with a high HHCPO content

• Flowers with HHCPO coating: Industrial hemp flowers treated with HHCPO distillate

• Oils and tinctures: For oral administration, delayed but longer-lasting effect

• Edibles: Gummy bears, capsules and other edible products with a defined active ingredient content

The choice of administration method significantly influences the effect profile. Inhalation leads to a rapid onset of action (minutes), but a shorter duration of effect. Oral administration delays the effect (30-90 minutes), but often results in a stronger and longer-lasting taste sensation.

Quality criteria for the product range:

Learn more about Cannabis trends 2025, product innovations and future quality standards on the German market .

criterion	Meaning	Warning signal if missing
Independent Laboratory Analyses (COA)	Confirms active ingredient content and purity	No certainty about the content
HHCPO content information	Enables dosing	Risk of overdose
THC value information	Legal compliance	Potential illegality
Solvent test	No harmful residues	Health risk
Heavy metal test	No toxic contamination	Long-term damage possible
Pesticide test	No pesticides	Unknown burden

It is important to understand that even with good laboratory results, fundamental uncertainty about the active ingredient HHCPO remains. Pure product quality does not guarantee safety – it merely reduces additional risks from impurities.

How to identify reputable suppliers and avoid counterfeits

Choosing a reputable supplier can minimize some risks, though not eliminate them entirely. Ordering from established retailers with verifiable quality control is generally preferable to ordering from unknown sources.

Evaluation criteria for providers:

A complete legal notice with company details, clear terms and conditions, and accessible contact information within the EU is the minimum requirement. Anonymous shops or those based in non-EU countries offer no legal recourse in case of problems. The website should be professionally designed and free of obvious errors.

Reviews on platforms like Google, Trustpilot, or in relevant forums can provide clues about reliability. However, be aware of patterns in fake reviews: exclusively 5-star ratings, identical wording, or reviews all submitted within a short period are warning signs.

A practical research strategy: Search for the shop's name along with terms like "reviews," "fraud," or "scam." Problematic cases often surface quickly this way.

Warning signs that should lead to abstaining:

• Extremely low prices compared to the market

• Missing or unverifiable laboratory reports

• No exact active ingredient information (mg HHCPO per unit)

• Fanciful names like “Aroma products”, “BZV” or “E9D” without a clear description of the ingredients

• Aggressive advertising claims or exaggerated healing claims

• Shopping cart without a clear product description

Even seemingly reputable shops cannot circumvent the fundamental legal situation and general security concerns regarding HHCPO. A professional product range does not automatically guarantee a safe product.

HHCPO compared to HHC, HHCP, THC and THCP

Comparing different cannabinoids is difficult because individual factors play a significant role. Nevertheless, certain trends can be described based on user reports and the limited scientific literature.

THC serves as the reference point – it is the most thoroughly researched psychoactive cannabinoid. HHC is perceived by most users as somewhat milder, with a similar but weaker effect profile. HHCP and HHCPO are sometimes described as significantly stronger, with acetylation of HHCPO supposedly further increasing its potency. Studies show THCP binds to CB1 receptors much more strongly than THC – estimates suggest up to 33 times the affinity.

These comparisons are subject to considerable uncertainty. Dosage, individual tolerance, product quality, processing method, and route of administration all play crucial roles. Controlled studies that would allow a direct comparison under standardized conditions do not exist.

The endocannabinoid system, with its CB1 and CB2 receptors, is the target of all cannabinoids. Small structural changes to the molecule—such as a longer side chain or acetylation—can significantly alter the binding affinity and thus the effect. The seven-carbon alkyl chain in THCP and HHCP, compared to the five-carbon chain in THC, is an example of this.

One important point to conclude this section: Stronger binding or higher potency does not automatically mean "better." On the contrary, it increases the risk of unwanted effects, experiences that are difficult to control, and problematic patterns of use. With psychoactive substances, more is rarely better.

Conclusion: Why special caution is advised when dealing with HHCPO

HHCPO is a synthetic, potent cannabinoid with unclear health effects and increasingly restrictive legal regulations in Europe. The world of synthetic cannabinoids is developing faster than legislation and research can keep up – with corresponding risks for consumers.

Due to a lack of conclusive studies, no reliable statements can be made regarding safety, therapeutic benefits, or tolerable long-term doses. The information in this article is largely based on manufacturer claims and user reports – a scientific basis in the true sense is lacking. Anyone considering cannabinoids for medical reasons should opt for more established, legally regulated options. Medical cannabis based on THC or CBD is available in Germany under medical supervision and offers a significantly better data foundation.

Before using HHCPO, you should obtain current legal information. The legal situation can change rapidly, and what is tolerated in one country today may be prohibited tomorrow. When in doubt, abstaining is the safest option – both from a health and a legal perspective. If you have any questions, consult medical or legal professionals instead of relying on unverified sources.