The proliferation of various articles and not-so-credible researches in the Internet about JWH-018 is causing uncertainty among herbal blend users and other concerned citizens. For those who are not knowledgeable, they would often confuse facts from myths and vice versa. Some researchers would claim that certain amounts of JWH018 found in incensed drugs cause some adverse effects that can harm the human body. Other reports say that it is not entirely dangerous resulting to a more confusing and vague information about JWH018.

Synthetic Marijuana Testing

Brief History of JWH018

Dr. John W. Huffman, a research professor at Clemson University, first synthesized JWH018 thus taking its name from his initials. It was first used as a tool to study the cannabinoid system. It was intentionally formed to recreate the effects of Marijuana (Cannabis Sativa L). Its appearance is usually in white powder or solid form and produces effects similar to smoking Cannabis such as:  sleepiness, relaxation, decrease blood pressure, hallucinations and delusions to name a few.

Myths VS Facts

Here are some common misconceptions about JWH018 and quick facts to bust them.

Myth: “If you see a dark brown JHW018, it is a fake.”

Fact: A dark brown-colored JWH018 is in truth its raw form.

JWH018 is most commonly distributed in a white solid or powder form in the market leading to misunderstanding that any other color is labeled as a fake, which is actually not true. It appears darker because it is denser. However, after processing, it changes its color drastically. Some evidences actually show that its flakes and crystallized forms appear in lighter colors after grinding, which originally came from a dark solid JWH018. In addition, a pure white JWH018 turns to yellow when highly oxidized.

Myth: “JWH018 is a synthetic THC.”

Fact: It is not a synthetic THC, but actually an amino alkylindole.

JWH018 is a part of the amino alkylindole family. However, it has a binding affinity towards CB1 and CB2 receptors the same as how THC or other cannabinoids work. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is responsible for the psychoactive effects in the brain and body, is the main active substance found in Marijuana. Because JWH018’s pharmacologic mechanism is quite similar to THC, it produces the same effects as smoking Cannabis. Aside from that, its structure is distinct and in no way similar to the structure of THC or any cannabinoid you know.

Myth: “JWH-018 can be medically used for therapeutic effect.”

Fact:  It is not licensed for medical applications.

Although some users claim that they experience analgesic effects from taking the substance, no clinical studies can prove otherwise. It is not right to claim that JWH018 has therapeutic use when there are no scientific results to back it.

Myth: “JWH018 has no potential for abuse.”

Fact: It actually has mild to high tolerance acquisition.

In reality, users of JWH018 exhibit rapid decrease in response to the drug after repeated doses in just 3 days. In effect, a larger dose is needed to achieve the same effect when taken the first time. If this continues, a built drug tolerance may result to uncontrollable increase in amounts of JWH018 required to get high. This may eventually lead to drug abuse and overdose.

Myth: “Any form of drug tests cannot detect JWH018.”

Fact:  It can still be detected by drug test if specifically identified.

Many of the users have claimed that JWH018 was not found when they took drug tests. This is because drug tests seek THC or cannabinoid metabolites and antibodies to test positive. Since JWH018 has a different chemical structure as the substances mentioned, it would indeed give a negative result. However, if drug-testing authorities know exactly the specific structure of JWH018, then it is still possible to detect it. The issue also lies on when is the user tested. This is because JWH018 has a half-life of 2 hours before leaving the body.

The web is a good marketing outlet. So, it is not surprising to come across some false statements and claims in order to sell. Remember, myths do not have proofs while facts always have basis and evidences. In order to distinguish between myths and facts, validating and confirming the credibility of your resources comes first. There are lot of information available, but be sure to believe only the truth and nothing else.

This Article is written by Lena Butler, contributor of Test Country Articles.