THQ-PINACA

Synthetic cannabinoid

THQ-PINACA
File:THQ-PINACA structure.png
INN
Drug class
Routes of administration
Pregnancy category
Bioavailability
Metabolism
Elimination half-life
Excretion
Legal status
CAS Number	1400742-16-6
PubChem	119025451
DrugBank
ChemSpider	52085448
KEGG

THQ-PINACA is a synthetic cannabinoid that has been identified in various designer drug products. It is a potent agonist of the cannabinoid receptors, which are part of the endocannabinoid system in the human body. These receptors are primarily involved in the modulation of neurotransmitter release in the brain.

Chemical Structure and Properties

File:THQ-PINACA structure.png

Chemical structure of THQ-PINACA

THQ-PINACA is chemically classified as an indazole-based synthetic cannabinoid. Its IUPAC name is N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide. The compound has a molecular formula of C₂₁H₃₀N₄O₂ and a molecular weight of 370.49 g/mol.

The structure of THQ-PINACA includes an indazole core, which is a bicyclic structure consisting of a benzene ring fused to a five-membered nitrogen-containing pyrazole ring. This core is substituted with a cyclohexylmethyl group at the 1-position and a carboxamide group at the 3-position. The carboxamide group is further substituted with a tert-leucine moiety, which is a branched amino acid derivative.

Pharmacology

THQ-PINACA acts as a full agonist at the CB₁ and CB₂ cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are part of the G protein-coupled receptor family and are involved in a variety of physiological processes including pain sensation, mood regulation, and appetite control.

The activation of CB₁ receptors by THQ-PINACA leads to psychoactive effects similar to those produced by tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. However, synthetic cannabinoids like THQ-PINACA can be significantly more potent than THC, leading to increased risk of adverse effects.

Legal Status

Due to its potential for abuse and lack of medical use, THQ-PINACA is classified as a controlled substance in many jurisdictions. The legal status of synthetic cannabinoids can vary widely between countries and regions, often being subject to rapid changes in response to emerging public health concerns.

Health Risks and Toxicity

The use of THQ-PINACA has been associated with a range of adverse health effects. These can include tachycardia, hypertension, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, hallucinations, and seizures. In severe cases, use of synthetic cannabinoids can lead to acute kidney injury and death.

The variability in potency and the presence of unknown adulterants in products containing THQ-PINACA further increase the risk of toxicity. Users may experience unpredictable effects, and the lack of quality control in the production of these substances poses significant health risks.

Related Pages

• Synthetic cannabinoids
• Cannabinoid receptor
• Designer drug
• Endocannabinoid system