JWH018

Based on the search results, I'll provide comprehensive information about JWH018: JWH018 is a synthetic cannabinoid that acts as a full agonist at both CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. It was first synthesized by John W. Huffman, an organic chemist at Clemson University, as part of research into compounds affecting the endocannabinoid system[1]. JWH018 has been identified in herbal incense mixtures sold under names like "Spice" and "K2"[5]. ## Chemical Properties JWH018, also known as 1-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole, has a molecular formula of C24H23NO and a molecular weight of 341.4-341.5 g/mol[2][4]. It belongs to the naphthoylindole family of synthetic cannabinoids[1][4]. The compound has no hydrogen bond donors, 6 rotatable bonds, and a topological polar surface area of 22[8]. ## Pharmacology JWH018 is a potent full agonist of both CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, with binding affinities of 9.00 ± 5.00 nM at CB1 and 2.94 ± 2.65 nM at CB2[1]. Its affinity for the CB1 receptor is approximately five times greater than that of THC[1]. The EC50 values are 102 nM for human CB1 receptors and 133 nM for human CB2 receptors[1]. In animal studies, JWH018 produces effects similar to Δ9-THC, including: - Decreased overall activity - Analgesia - Decreased body temperature - Catalepsy These effects, collectively known as the "classical tetrad," are predictive of THC-like psychoactive effects in humans[5]. In drug discrimination studies with rats, JWH018 produced subjective effects similar to those of Δ9-THC[5]. ## Metabolism When metabolized, JWH018 undergoes several transformations in the body: - Monohydroxylation of the naphthalene ring system, indole moiety, and alkyl side chain - Dihydroxylation at various positions - Trihydroxylation - Dehydration of the alkyl side chain - N-dealkylation - Carboxylation at the alkyl side chain[2] The median half-life of JWH018 when inhaled is 1.69 hours[1]. Human metabolism primarily occurs on the indole ring and pentyl side chain, with hydroxylated metabolites extensively conjugated with glucuronide[1]. ## Legal Status JWH018 is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, meaning it has no accepted medical use, lacks accepted safety for use under medical supervision, and has a high potential for abuse[2][5]. It was identified in "Spice" products in 2008, leading to subsequent regulatory actions in various countries[1].

Brand names

SpiceK2K-2K 2

Other names

1-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole