Following China's generic structural class ban of several sub-classes of synthetic cannabinoids in 2021, the NPS/designer-drug landscape continues to evolve to evade regulation. As new structural variations appear on the grey market, another new phenomenon is the emergence of 'DIY' semi-finished kits. These semi-finished kits provide the end-user with non-regulated precursors enabling the user to finish the synthesis themselves to the desired synthetic cannabinoid of choice. Because the end-user often does not have the appropriate engineering and quality controls in place, drug substances on the illicit market are commonly contaminated with unreacted chemical precursors.  Several of these tail-less penultimate precursors have been detected on the grey market since late 2021.

Listen in as Holly Pierzynski, Cayman's Manager of Forensic Novel Psychoactive Substance Research, discusses several emerging synthetic cannabinoids, their precursors, synthesis, and byproducts from the synthesis. This presentation also highlights Cayman's new application note, "GC Separation of ADB-BUTINACA from its precursor ADB-INACA". 

Presented as part of the 2024 Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists Conference in Kansas City, Missouri.

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