On June 27, 2024, the "Fifth Ordinance amending the Annex to the New Psychoactive Substances Act" (NpSG) came into force. As a result, the sale of THCP has been banned since then.
THCP is one of those cannabinoids that has been the subject of much speculation in recent years – especially because, in the laboratory, it shows a significantly stronger binding to certain receptors than THC. But what does this mean in practice? And what is the legal situation in Germany? We clarify what we know – and what is still open.
What is THCP – and why is it considered so potent?
THCP, short for Tetrahydrocannabiphorol, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid from the cannabis plant. It was only described in 2019 by Italian researchers and differs only minimally in structure from THC – with one crucial detail that could influence its mode of action.
The structure makes the difference
While THC has a side chain with five carbon atoms, THCP has seven. This longer chain allows for a stronger binding to the CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system – those docking sites that are primarily responsible for psychoactive effects. Structurally similar, potentially significantly more intense functionally.
33 times stronger than THC – what does that mean?
In laboratory tests, THCP showed about 33 times stronger affinity for CB1 receptors than THC. That sounds impressive – but it doesn't automatically mean that the effect on humans is just as strong. Binding strength is only one of many factors. How THCP actually behaves in the body, what dose would be necessary, and how long it works has hardly been investigated so far.
Naturally occurring, but extremely rare
THCP occurs in the cannabis plant only in tiny amounts – often far below one percent. Nevertheless, it could play a role: Some researchers suspect that even traces of THCP could influence the effect profile of a strain. A possible explanation for why some flowers have a more intense effect than their THC content would suggest.
How does THCP work compared to THC?
The question of the effect is complex – because what happens in the test tube cannot be directly transferred to humans. Nevertheless, there are initial indications that explain the interest in THCP.
Binding to CB1 receptors: The theory
THCP binds more firmly and for longer to CB1 receptors than THC. Theoretically, this could mean that even smaller amounts are sufficient to produce noticeable effects. Whether this is true in practice depends on many factors: bioavailability, metabolism, individual tolerance. Binding strength alone is not a guarantee of a stronger effect.
Why some strains work more strongly than expected
There are cannabis strains whose effects cannot be explained by THC content alone. Here, THCP – along with other rare cannabinoids – could play a role. The so-called entourage effect describes how various plant compounds influence each other. THCP could be a puzzle piece in this complex interaction.
Lack of studies: What we don't know yet
There is currently no reliable data on the actual effects of THCP on humans. No clinical studies, no long-term observations, no confirmed dosage recommendations. What remains are laboratory results and assumptions – interesting, but not sufficient to make well-founded statements.
Is THCP legal or banned in Germany?
The legal classification of THCP has clearly changed in Germany. What was initially in a grey area is now clearly regulated.
The legal amendment of June 27, 2024
On June 27, 2024, the Fifth Ordinance amending the Annex to the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) came into force. With this amendment, the placing on the market of THCP – alongside HHC and other synthetic and semi-synthetic cannabinoids – was banned. Since then, corresponding products may no longer be sold in Germany.
What the NpSG means for THCP
The NpSG covers psychoactive substances that do not fall under the Narcotics Act but pose a similar risk potential. THCP was included in this category – regardless of whether it occurs naturally or is synthetically produced. The substance itself is decisive, not its origin.
Synthetic, semi-synthetic or natural – where is the line?
While THCP occurs naturally in the plant, it is usually produced synthetically or semi-synthetically for commercial products – simply because the natural quantities are too small. The NpSG makes no distinction here: The substance is covered, regardless of the manufacturing method. Products containing THCP are not legally available in Germany.
Our conclusion: Potent, but not available
THCP is a fascinating cannabinoid – structurally close to THC, significantly more potent in the laboratory, extremely rare in the plant. It could help to understand why some strains have a more intense effect than expected. However, solid data on the effect on humans is still lacking. And legally, the situation is clear: Since June 2024, THCP has been banned in Germany. We will continue to monitor the research – and keep you informed if anything changes.