HHCPO is classified as a drug in Sweden - Here's everything you need to know!

The government hasdecided to classify HHCPO, also known as HHCP acetate, as a drug, following a proposal from the Public Health Agency . The decision means that this cannabis-like substance will become illegal to sell, possess and use in Sweden. As with other substances on the list, this has created debate, as HHCPO has shown no documented dangers and is still legal in many other countries. Here we go through what the decision means, when it is expected to come into force and what you should do if you have products with HHCPO at home.

Will HHCPO become illegal in Sweden?

Yes, HHCPO will become illegal in Sweden. The decision is part of the government's wider strategy to regulate new cannabis-like substances. Despite the lack of clear evidence that HHCPO poses serious health risks, the government has chosen to include it on the list of substances classified as narcotics. This is a result of Sweden's cautious approach to cannabis-related products rather than specific dangers linked to HHCPO in particular.

When will HHCPO become illegal in Sweden?

The exact date for when the ban will take effect has not yet been determined, but it is expected to be within 30-45 days of the decision on November 7, 2024. During this time, HHCPO is still legal to sell and use. However, it is important to prepare for the law to come into force at any time within this period. Stay updated via the authorities' channels to know when the ban comes into effect.

Has the government decided to classify HHCPO as a narcotic?

Yes, the government has decided to classify HHCPO as a narcotic after taking note of the Public Health Agency's recommendations. Social Affairs Minister Jakob Forssmed has expressed that this is part of the government's work to limit access to new cannabis-like substances. However, many see the decision as controversial because HHCPO has not been linked to the same types of risks as other substances on the list, such as the extremely dangerous nitazenes.

What do I do if I have products left at home with HHCPO?

If you have products with HHCPO at home, it is important that you act before the ban comes into effect. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Stop using the products: Although HHCPO is legal until the law goes into effect, it's best to prepare for the ban.
2. Contact the municipality: Many municipalities can offer guidelines for how you can safely and environmentally friendly dispose of these products.
3. Recycling center: Some centers can handle such products properly.
4. Consult the authorities: If you are unsure, contact the Poisons Information Center or your municipality for further guidance.

It is important to handle these products in a correct way to avoid possible legal consequences and reduce the environmental impact.

Who is the contact person from the government?

If you have questions about the narcotic classification of the HHCPO, you can contact Simon Hoff, press secretary to the Minister of Social Affairs, Jakob Forssmed.

• Telephone (exchange): 08-405 10 00
• Mobile: 076-127 76 97

Why is HHCPO classified as a drug?

In its investigation, the Public Health Agency has included HHCPO as one of 17 substances that should be classified as a narcotic. According to the authority, the aim is to prevent potential health risks, although for HHCPO there are no reported cases of dangerous side effects or health problems.

The debate surrounding HHCPO has focused on the fact that the substance is still legal in many other countries and is used without reported incidents. Many see this decision as part of Sweden's strict stance against cannabis-related products, where caution often outweighs actual scientific evidence of dangerousness.

Final thoughts

The government's decision to drug class HHCPO is part of a wider initiative to regulate cannabis-like substances. Although HHCPO has not shown any clear dangers, it will soon be illegal in Sweden. The date for when the ban will come into effect has not yet been determined but is expected to take place within the next 30-45 days.

If you use or sell HHCPO products, it is important to prepare for the upcoming ban and act in time. For questions and further information, you can contact Simon Hoff or follow official channels for updates. The debate surrounding HHCPO shows the complex relationship between science, policy and Sweden's attitude to cannabis-related products. Stay informed and follow the new rules when they come into effect.