Illicit substances in school-confiscated vapes: Lessons from a laboratory-driven public health pilot

TL;DR

This study found synthetic cannabinoids in vapes confiscated from UK schools, highlighting the need for better public health responses to protect youth.

Contribution

The study identifies the prevalence of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists in school-confiscated vapes and emphasizes the importance of laboratory surveillance for public health interventions.

Findings

Illicit substances, particularly synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs), were detected in 6.9% of confiscated vapes.

SCRAs are potent synthetic compounds often mistaken for natural cannabis, posing significant health risks to youth.

Multi-agency collaboration and laboratory analysis are essential for effective public health messaging and safeguarding young people.

Abstract

Youth vaping in UK schools has escalated, with reports of vapes sold as THC products containing synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) and other illicit substances, prompting health emergencies. This pilot study aimed to determine the prevalence and types of illicit substances present in vapes confiscated from secondary schools to inform future public health surveillance and interventions.

Cross-sectional pilot study of confiscated vaping products collected from secondary schools in a defined UK region.

In May 2025, 80 secondary schools in the Black Country and West Birmingham were invited to donate confiscated vapes. Seven schools participated, and 212 vape products were collected in July 2025. LC-QTOF-MS screened for illicit substances, with confirmatory LC-MS/MS for SCRAs.

Confiscated devices comprised 161 disposable vapes (76%), 32 refillable devices, and 19 vape liquids (mean 30.1 per school; 95% CI 17.9–42). Of these, 204 samples were analysed, 14 samples from six schools contained illicit substances (6.9%): SCRAs were dominant (MDMB-4en-PINACA n = 13), plus 4F-MDMB-BINACA (n = 4), 5F-ADB (n = 2), MDMB-PINACA (n = 1); one liquid had all four SCRAs plus ecstasy, ketamine, mephedrone and ethcathinone. Half of positive vapes were disposable; the remaining seven included six were refillable and one liquid.

Illicit substances, particularly SCRAs also known as Spice, were detected in vapes confiscated from schools. SCRAs are frequently confused with natural cannabis. SCRAs are not natural cannabinoids but more potent and dangerous synthetic compounds. Improved awareness and understanding of their potential harms are critical for informing public health messaging and safeguarding young people. Multi-agency collaboration and laboratory surveillance of confiscated items are essential to enable targeted education.

Figures