The effects as well as the duration of the effect are different for each individual synthetic cannabinoid and depend on the dosage, frequency of use, set (person) and setting (environment). In addition, the synthetic cannabinoid is often unresearched and its effects are therefore difficult to assess. The duration of effect can last 3-6 hours. Some users report up to 8 hours. When smoked or snorted, the effect occurs within a few seconds to minutes. When consumed orally, the onset of effect is delayed. The effects of synthetic cannabinoids are often compared to cannabis and described as much more intense. For example, users experience a feeling of satisfaction and deep relaxation after consumption. Acoustic, visual and haptic (sense of touch) sensations can also change. Hallucinations are also reported in some cases. Some synthetic cannabinoids appear to have a slightly stimulating effect, with some users reporting stimulating and energising effects.

Depending on the dosage and potency of the synthetic cannabinoid consumed, negative effects can vary in intensity. In most cases, there is an accelerated pulse and even palpitations. Dry mouth, reddened eyes and circulatory problems can also occur. The consumption of synthetic cannabinoids also affects memory and motor control. Symptoms that are less common with conventional cannabis, such as severe nausea and vomiting, seizures and general psychomotor agitation, have also been observed. Negative psychological effects such as anxiety, panic attacks, depressive moods and even psychotic experiences can also occur. In the Global Drug Survey 2017, synthetic cannabinoids are cited as the second most common cause of seeking emergency medical treatment. Several deaths can also be attributed to the use of synthetic cannabinoids.

Synthetic cannabinoids are smoked, snorted or consumed orally, depending on the dosage form of the substance. The active ingredient is absorbed into the organism via the mucous membranes and acts on the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system influences numerous physiological processes (including the homeostasis of neurotransmitters). It is thought to be involved in learning and movement processes as well as the sleep-wake rhythm, among other things. The cannabinoid receptors identified to date are CB₁ and CB₂. Most synthetic cannabinoids found in smoking mixtures to date bind to the cannabinoid receptor CB₁ (to which THC also binds). However, there are also synthetic cannabinoids that bind to CB₂ and substances that inhibit the breakdown of the body's own (i.e. endogenous) cannabinoids. However, they are far less common.

Of the synthetic cannabinoids known to date, the majority have a stronger effect on CB₁ receptor than THC. This means that they are often many times more potent (i.e. stronger). Due to the resulting potential overstimulation of the CB₁ receptor explains why the consumption of synthetic cannabinoids can lead to atypical symptoms (excessive restlessness, nausea, vomiting, seizures) in addition to typical cannabis symptoms.

As synthetic cannabinoids are relatively new substances, there is no reliable information on the long-term effects of consumption. However, when smoking various herbal mixtures, harmful substances can enter the lungs, which can favour respiratory diseases. As with any psychoactive substance, there is also the possibility of developing an addiction. Users who have consumed synthetic cannabinoids over a longer period of time also report sleep problems and increased sweating after stopping.

If you want to use synthetic cannabinoids despite the health and legal risks, you should consider the following:

• Always start with the lowest possible dosage and wait for the effect before continuing to consume. This applies to all forms of consumption, although the effects of oral consumption are delayed and last longer.
• When you smoke, harmful substances enter your lungs, which can lead to respiratory diseases. Reduce this risk by using good filters or vaporisers.
• Only use if you feel well and are in a comfortable, safe environment. Ideally, you should have friends nearby who are there for you and can call a doctor in an emergency.
• Synthetic cannabinoids affect attention, motor skills and memory. Therefore, do not consume before studying, at school, before work or before driving.
• Avoid mixed consumption with other substances (including alcohol), as the effects are even more difficult to assess.

• lung diseases and existing heart complaints or heart diseases, as the heart and circulation are put under additional strain.
• For anxiety, depression or psychological problems, as synthetic cannabinoids can intensify these negative feelings.
• During pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Participation in road traffic (car or bicycle)

Synthetic cannabinoids are partly covered by the SMG (Narcotic Substances Act) or the NPSG (New Psychoactive Substances Act). The consequences vary depending on which law they are covered by.

The Narcotic Substances Act criminalises the acquisition, possession, import and export, transfer to and procurement for others (transfer and sale). Consumers who violate the SMG must expect a mandatory visit to the public health officer (in Vienna: the outpatient centre of the Addiction and Drug Coordination). The doctor can then order health-related measures. If you adhere to these requirements, there will be no court proceedings.

The new Psychoactive Substances Act aims to penalise the profitable trade in these substances. A person who intentionally produces, imports, exports or transfers or procures synthetic cannabinoids to another person so that they can be used by the other person to achieve a psychoactive effect in the human body is therefore liable to prosecution. If it is possession for personal use, no further penalties are provided for.