Meeting abstract

https://doi.org/10.24869/spsih.2026.184

The Phenomenon of Synthetic Cannabinoid Abuse in Correctional Facilities - A New Challenge for Forensic Psychiatry

Nika Sutara ; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Zagreb, Croatia *
Mislav Gušćić ; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Zagreb, Croatia
Zvonimir Sušić ; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Zagreb, Croatia
Ivan Ćelić ; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Zagreb, Croatia

* Corresponding author.

Abstract

Introduction: In recent years, synthetic cannabinoids
(synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists,
SCRA) have become one of the most important
new psychoactive substances in European prison
systems. Their high potency, easy smuggling by
impregnating paper, and difficult detection by
standard methods contribute to their wide availability
in prisons. European data show that SCRA
are the most commonly used new psychoactive
substances in prisons and a major cause of emergency
medical and psychiatric interventions. The
aim of this abstract is to present the characteristics
of SCRA misuse in prisons, their psychological
and security-related consequences, and the
implications for the clinical practice of prison psychiatrists.
Methods: A narrative review was conducted
of the literature published between 2017 and 2026, including epidemiological reports and
scientific papers on the pharmacology, epidemiology,
clinical manifestations, and forensic-psychiatric
aspects of use in the prison population. Discussion:
A global review of epidemiological studies
shows that approximately 40% of individuals
at prison intake meet criteria for a drug use disorder.
In the UK, it is estimated that 33–90% of
prisoners use SCRA, while in England and Wales,
new psychoactive substances, primarily SCRA,
are associated with more than half of all unnatural
deaths in prisons. Both in the USA (2024)
and in the EU, an increase has been recorded in
fatal overdoses and poisonings with high-potency
SCRA. As full CB1 receptor agonists, they cause
more severe psychological and somatic complications
than natural cannabis, including acute
psychosis, suicidality, aggressiveness, epileptic
seizures, and cardiovascular complications. The
expanded toxicological monitoring of the European
Union Drugs Agency (EUDA) now focuses
on the analysis of polydrug use and high-potency
synthetic opioids and cannabinoids. Conclusion:
SCRA represent a growing public health and security
problem in correctional facilities. An effective
response requires interdisciplinary collaboration
among psychiatrists, prison physicians, toxicology
laboratories, the justice system, and public
health services. Emphasis should be placed on
early recognition of intoxications, the development
of detection methods, professional education,
and targeted prevention and treatment
programs for people deprived of liberty.

Keywords

synthetic cannabinoids; prison population; forensic psychiatry; new psychoactive substances

Hrčak ID:

352319

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/352319

Publication date:

15.6.2026.

Article data in other languages: croatian

Visits: 0 *