A warning has been issued by the Health Service Executive and gardaí over packaged sweets suspected of containing synthetic cannabinoids.
Gardaí said they recently seized a large quantity of the jellies during a search operation in Clonmel, Co Tipperary recently.
In a statement, the HSE a number of people were hospitalised last month in the Tipperary area after consuming jellies that it said contained "new and risky substances known as synthetic cannabinoids".
It said synthetic cannabinoids are man-made chemicals produced to mimic the effects of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound in cannabis.
However, products often do not contain THC, but instead have a synthetic cannabinoid "which will produce similar, more potent effects".
The HSE has also expressed concern in relation to synthetic cannabinoids appearing in herbal (plant material),vape liquid/oil, edible and other THC products being sold in Ireland.
A number of products seized recently were analysed by Forensic Science Ireland and found to contain only new and extra risky synthetic cannabinoids and not any THC as indicted on the packaging.
The HSE is urging people to be aware of the symptoms of synthetic cannabinoid exposure, which include feeling dizzy, confusion, abnormal sweating, respiratory issues (difficulty breathing or lack of breathing), chest pain/rapid heartbeat, nausea and vomiting, agitation, aggression, psychotic behaviour, hallucinations, delusions, seizures or fits and a sudden loss of consciousness.
It said there is a high level of risk associated with THC edibles currently being sold illegally in Ireland.
It urged people to seek medical help if they or someone they know has an unexpected reaction or becomes physically or mentally unwell following use.
Today 6th January 2023, the HSE National Social Inclusion Office has issued a risk communication on cannabis jellies adulterated with synthetic cannabinoids in Ireland.
— HSE Drugs.ie (@drugsdotie) January 6, 2023
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