EU warns of synthetic drug threat as seizures and overdose risks rise across Ireland

EU report warns of surging synthetic drug threats in Ireland, with potent opioids, cathinones and edibles endangering public health

HHC can be purchased legally in jellies and vapes from stores in Ireland, despite repeated concerns of medical experts. File picture

Europe is facing an emerging threat from synthetic drugs — including artificial substances that mimic cannabis, heroin and stimulants — the EU drug agency has warned.

It has documented “unprecedented imports and seizures” of synthetic cathinones, which are chemically similar to cathinone, a stimulant.