New & emerging products  /  THC & cannabis vapes

Products sold as THC, CBD or cannabis vapes can look much like ordinary nicotine vapes. The problem is that an illicit product may contain a different drug from the one advertised, including synthetic cannabinoids such as Spice.

Last reviewed: 25 September 2026

QUICK ANSWER

In 2025–26, 43% of THC, CBD or cannabinoid vape samples submitted to WEDINOS contained synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs). That figure describes samples submitted for testing, not all vapes in Wales, but it shows why assumptions based on packaging can be risky.

There are two separate questions: the effects of THC itself, and whether the product actually contains what it claims. Illicit products are not quality-controlled in the same way as licensed medicines or regulated consumer products.

WEDINOS has repeatedly identified synthetic cannabinoids in products submitted as THC, CBD or cannabis vapes. Synthetic cannabinoids can produce very different and sometimes more severe effects, including confusion, agitation, paranoia, vomiting, chest symptoms, seizures or loss of consciousness.

• Start with health and safeguarding. If a young person is unwell, deal with the medical situation first.
• Do not assume the label is accurate. “THC”, “CBD” or a cannabis leaf symbol does not confirm the contents.
• Do not taste, smell closely, inhale or informally test the product.
• Follow your school or organisation’s policy for confiscated substances and safeguarding concerns.
• Record what is known: packaging, name used, where it came from, what the young person says they took, and symptoms.
• Use WEDINOS and specialist services for current drug-market information rather than trying to identify a substance yourself.

Call 999 if someone collapses, has a seizure, is struggling to breathe, becomes severely confused or agitated, loses consciousness, or you are seriously worried after drug use. Tell the ambulance crew what you know about the product, even if you are unsure what it contained.