Year-long tracking of synthetic cannabinoids in Mayotte showed rapidly shifting and consolidating market

Thirteen different synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists were identified across 195 samples (187 cigarettes, 8 powders). Co-formulants included other cannabinoids, pharmaceuticals, and novel psychoactive substances mixed with tobacco or cannabis plant material. Month by month, the market became more homogeneous due to manufacturer consolidation and gang hegemony, but specific product profiles could change dramatically between campaigns.

Eight week-long sampling campaigns were conducted over one year in Mayotte (a French overseas territory). Researchers collected samples from street users and open consumption sites, offering consumers interviews about their use patterns and supply chains. Samples were analyzed using liquid chromatography with high-resolution mass spectrometry.

Synthetic cannabinoids ("chimique" in Mayotte) represent one of the most dangerous drug trends globally due to their unpredictable potency and unknown compositions. This study provides rare longitudinal data showing how quickly the market evolves, creating ongoing risks for users who cannot know what they are consuming.

Mayotte represents an extreme case due to its insularity and poverty, but the patterns observed, rapid product turnover, market consolidation by dominant suppliers, and unpredictable compositions, mirror synthetic cannabinoid markets worldwide. The speed of change makes harm reduction extremely difficult.

Mayotte is a small, isolated island territory with unique socioeconomic conditions that limit generalizability. Sample collection from street users introduces selection bias. The study cannot quantify total market size or prevalence of use. User interviews are subject to reporting bias.