JWH-073
JWH-073 is a synthetic cannabinoid that is used in scientific research and has been sold online as a designer drug. It is an analgesic chemical from the naphthoylindole family, which acts as a partial agonist at both the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, with some selectivity for CB2. It was discovered by and named after Dr. John W. Huffman.
Chemistry[edit]
JWH-073 is an analogue of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the active ingredient in cannabis. It is a naphthoylindole, meaning it is composed of a naphthoyl group (a two-ring aromatic hydrocarbon) attached to an aminoalkylindole group. In the case of JWH-073, the aminoalkylindole group is a butyl chain.
Pharmacology[edit]
JWH-073 acts as a partial agonist at both the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, with a slight preference for CB2. It is metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system. It has a half-life of approximately 1.5 hours.
Effects[edit]
The effects of JWH-073 are similar to those of THC, but it is significantly more potent. It produces a high that lasts approximately 1-2 hours. Side effects can include anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations.
Legal Status[edit]
JWH-073 is illegal in many countries, including the United States, where it is a Schedule I controlled substance.
See Also[edit]
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JWH-073 chemical structure
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4'-methyl-JWH-073 chemical structure
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JWH-073