Dangerous vapes in circulation: 'Can lead to serious health problems'

New "THC vapes" are circulating that could be dangerous. The Jellinek addiction clinic and the Amsterdam Municipal Health Service (GGD) are warning of serious health risks. Several young people have become unwell after using these vapes.

Earlier this year, pulmonologists already sounded the alarm about the health risks posed by vaping. According to the Trimbos Institute, young people underestimate the dangers of vaping . But in this case, it goes even further.

THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the "high" users experience. Healthcare professionals are reporting that disposable vapes are being sold illegally as so-called "THC vapes," but in reality, they contain synthetic compounds from a lab that mimic the active ingredient in cannabis.

"These substances can be more potent and prolonged, and sometimes lead to serious health problems," write the Jellinek addiction clinic and the Amsterdam Municipal Health Service (GGD) in a message to professionals working with young people. Several young people have recently become unwell due to these types of vapes and required medical attention, a Jellinek spokesperson confirmed.

Zembla investigated the vapes. The television program obtained several THC vapes used by students and had them tested at a specialized lab. Nearly all of the vapes were found to contain synthetic substances. Zembla spoke with students who reported fainting after using them. Such vapes can also cause anxiety, heart palpitations, and psychosis. The students order the vapes via social media.

Jellinek is also aware of the reports. "It's important to note that this concerns a small group, especially in Amsterdam. Fortunately, the use of these types of vapes isn't widespread. We certainly don't want to make it attractive to young people," says a spokesperson for the specialized clinic.

Precise figures on how many such vapes are in circulation are unavailable, but according to the spokesperson, these are isolated incidents. All young people who became unwell from these types of vapes have recovered. "It's often unclear what exactly is in illegal vapes and what risks they entail," the authorities warn. They therefore strongly advise against their use.

Outgoing State Secretary for Youth, Prevention, and Sport, Judith Tielen, calls the Zembla investigation "alarming." "The rise of these THC vapes is worrying. We're talking about illegal substances that are truly dangerous to your health. Besides this direct risk, there's also the risk that this use will become a stepping stone to other substances."