HPLC-UV quantitation of synthetically derived THC, THCP, and HHC isomers in commercial vaping liquids and edibles (2019-2024).

Ciolino L.; Ranieri T. · Journal of forensic sciences · 2026

**Background & Methods** This is a 5-year review (2019-2024) of synthetically derived cannabinoid products submitted for quantitative analysis. The authors developed and validated a series of HPLC-UV methods to identify and quantify THC isomers, THCPs, and HHCs in commercial vaping liquids and edibles using optimized chromatographic columns and ternary mobile phases with methanol, acetonitrile, and acetic acid buffer. **Key Findings** • Commercial products contained complex mixtures of seven different THC positional isomers (Δ9-THC, Δ8-THC, Δ6a10a-THC, Δ10-THC, Δ4(8)-iso-THC, Δ8-iso-THC, and exo-THC), often combined with THCPs or HHCs, rather than the single Δ9-THC expected from cannabis plant material. • Vaping liquids and dabs demonstrated total THC isomer contents ranging from 25-96% w/w, while edible gummies and candies contained 57-321 mg/gummy or 13-24 mg/candy piece respectively, with one product containing 649 mg Δ8-THC and 791 mg total combined THC/HHC isomers per gummy. • The HPLC-UV methods successfully resolved and quantified multiple cannabinoid isomers that are difficult to distinguish structurally, providing forensic and consumer safety analytical tools for identifying synthetically derived products. **Dosage & Administration** Variable dosing across product types. Vaping liquids and dabs: 25-96% w/w THC isomers. Edibles: 57-321 mg per gummy or 13-24 mg per candy piece. Maximum observed: 791 mg total cannabinoids per single gummy. **Safety & Adverse Effects** Serious adverse events documented in large-scale studies associated with synthetic THC product use in both adults and children, including intoxication, psychosis, encephalopathy, CNS depression, respiratory failure, and acute cardiovascular emergencies. Specific adverse event data from this study cohort not reported. **Evidence Quality** This analytical chemistry review lacks controlled study design, defined patient population, or clinical outcome measurements. The study provides forensic analytical data rather than clinical evidence and is limited to product characterization without pharmacokinetic or clinical efficacy/safety data. Evidence level is descriptive/observational. Strengths include validated analytical methods and large sample analysis over 5 years; limitations include lack of animal/human toxicology data specific to identified isomers.

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