The head of the Czech National Anti-Drug Centre, Jakub Frydrych, has called for new drugs like HHC (tetrahydrocannabinol) or kratom to be added to the list of banned substances. The Czech government is considering the proposal due to concerns about the potential health complications and addiction associated with these substances. If approved, these drugs could be included on the Ministry of Health’s list of prohibited substances as early as July.

HHC, a cannabis derivative, is virtually indistinguishable from regular marijuana and has similar effects to THC. However, its sale is entirely legal in the Czech Republic, and it is sold in various forms such as hashish, gummy candies, or electronic cigarettes. The substance is not approved as a foodstuff, but as a collector’s item, which absolves sellers of any responsibility for potential health problems. It is also sold in vending machines, including those located near schools.

Frydrych argues that HHC and kratom should be banned due to their harmfulness and availability, which has no restrictions. Most experts agree that these substances may be banned as early as July. National anti-drug coordinator, Jindřich Vobořil, has suggested regulating the substances and restricting access by age. He argues that the substances should not be freely available and that there should be some regulation, just as with alcohol and tobacco.

The government is currently negotiating with the Ministry of Health to prepare a new law that would create a new list of psycho-modulatory substances. These substances would not be considered foodstuffs, but neither would they be prohibited substances. The new regulation would address the availability and harmfulness of drugs like HHC and kratom while also ensuring that these substances are not completely banned.

In conclusion, the debate over whether to ban or regulate drugs like HHC and kratom continues in the Czech Republic. While some argue for banning the substances, others suggest regulating them and restricting access by age. The government is currently considering a new law that would create a new list of psycho-modulatory substances, which would address the availability and harmfulness of these drugs. Whatever the outcome of these discussions, the health and safety of the public must remain a top priority.

Article by Prague Forum