Why we’re flagging this: A vape labelled HHC, HHC-P, THC-P or THC-O may not contain what the label says.
Last checked: 30 September 2026
What has testing found?
A UK study tested seven sealed vapes that had been sold as cannabis products. The supplier said they contained HHC, HHC-P, THC-P or THC-O. Laboratory testing found the synthetic cannabinoid 5F-MDMB-PICA in all seven instead.
Welsh drug-testing programme WEDINOS has found the same wider problem. In 2025/26, 43% of THC, CBD or cannabinoid vape products submitted to WEDINOS contained synthetic cannabinoids, sometimes known as Spice.
Why does this matter?
With an illicit or unregulated vape, the name printed on the device or used by the seller may not tell you what is actually inside.
What don’t we know?
The seven-vape study was small. WEDINOS tests products that people choose to submit, so its figures do not tell us how common these products are across Wales.
These figures should not be used to say that 43% of young people’s vapes contain Spice.
What should schools, families and youth settings do?
Do not rely on the name printed on an unfamiliar vape to identify its contents. Do not dismantle or test it. If someone becomes unwell after using an unknown vape, seek medical help and follow your safeguarding or incident process.
By ASH Wales