In France, the cannabis wellness market continues to evolve in step with administrative decisions and legislative adjustments. After successive bans on HHC, H4CBD, THCP and HHCPO, two new molecules are now in the sights of the health authorities: THV+ and THV-N10.
As we approach the summer of 2025, there are consistent indications that these cannabinoids may, in turn, be classified as narcotics. No official confirmation has yet been published, but the general trend seems to point to a probable ban in the short term.
An accelerating prohibition dynamic
Since 2023, France has stepped up restrictive measures against semi-synthetic cannabinoids, often presented as legal alternatives to THC. HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) was the first to be listed as a narcotic in June 2023, citing health risks and regulatory vagueness. Other molecules soon followed: H4CBD, HHCPO, THCP, and more recently 10-OH-HHC in several neighboring countries.
These bans are not isolated. They are part of a reinforced precautionary approach by health authorities, notably theANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé), which today seems to be focusing its attention on the most recent neo-cannabinoids.
THV+ and THV-N10: two compounds at a crossroads
THV+ and THV-N10 are two cannabinoids that have recently appeared on the European market. Synthetically derived from molecular structures close to THC, they have enjoyed a rapid rise in popularity, not least because of their notable psychoactive effects.
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THV+ is renowned for its powerful effects, often compared to those of delta-9-THC. It offers a rapid and pronounced high, arousing growing interest in amateur circles.
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The THV-N10, on the other hand, is often described as softer, with a gradual, more controlled build-up. In particular, it is praised for its ability to prolong effects while maintaining mental clarity.
To date, these two compounds have not been classified as narcotics. Their legal status remains legal as long as no regulatory decision is made to ban them. However, the situation could change rapidly.
Increased surveillance by health authorities
According to several industry sources, signals indicate thatANSM is closely monitoring data on THV+ and THV-N10. The agency regularly assesses the toxicological profiles, abuse risks, addiction potential and traceability of molecules circulating on the market.
Although technically legal, these substances meet several warning criteria:
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Marked psychotropic effects
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Chemical structure related to THC
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Lack of consolidated scientific studies
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Vulnerability to misuse, especially among young adults
Against this backdrop, there is growing speculation that the drug could be classified as a narcotic by summer 2025. A fast-track procedure, similar to that applied to HHC, could be set in motion. This requires neither parliamentary debate nor prior public consultation.
Increasingly strict regulation of alternative cannabis
The question raised by this potential ban goes far beyond the molecules themselves. It raises questions about the market's ability to innovate in a shifting legal framework, where each new molecule quickly becomes suspect. The cycle now seems established: appearance, rise in popularity, then ban, often in less than 12 months.
This reflects a general tightening of French policy on cannabinoids, whether natural, processed or semi-synthetic. Authorities tend to treat any molecule mimicking the effects of THC as a potential health threat, without waiting for proof of its long-term harmfulness.
Today, the precautionary principle is the dominant norm, even if it sometimes clashes with market dynamics, consumer demand and efforts to structure the industry.
What does the law say about classification as a narcotic?
In the event of an official decision, classification as a narcotic automatically entails :
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Prohibition of manufacture, possession, sale, purchase or consumption
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Immediate withdrawal of all products concerned, whatever their form (flower, resin, oil, e-liquid...).
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Compulsory destruction or return of stocks by professionals
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Penalties for non-compliance
This type of measure is generally implemented without prior notice, making it difficult for both professionals and users to anticipate. In this respect, THV+ and THV-N10 could suddenly disappear from the market, as was the case for HHC and THCP.
A legal window is still open, but for how long?
At the time of writing (June 2025), there has been no official ban on THV+ or THV-N10. These cannabinoids can therefore still be legally marketed, held and consumed.
However, recent precedents call for caution. The wellness cannabis market in France remains fragile, dependent on shifting and unclear regulations. Retailers and consumers alike need to stay informed, in liaison with official sources (ANSM, Ministry of Health), to keep abreast of developments.
European policy in disarray
Interestingly, France is no exception. Germany, Belgium, Italy and the Netherlands have also begun to restrict certain alternative cannabinoids. However, decisions differ widely from one member state to another, in the absence of a harmonized regulatory framework at EU level.
This diversity creates legal uncertainty, which is exploited by certain brands to continue selling products that are banned in one country but authorized in another. This is a situation that the European Commission will have to resolve sooner or later, in the name of greater health and commercial coherence.
What to watch out for in the coming weeks
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ANSM's official position: a decision could be taken as early as summer 2025
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Scientific publications: any study pointing to a toxicological risk could speed up the ban
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European coordination: joint classifications between member states now possible
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Reactions from the industry: structuring the sector could be a key factor
In a nutshell
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THV+ and THV-N10 are now legal in France, but under strict supervision.
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Their potential ban would reflect a precautionary strategy already well established by the health authorities.
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French regulation of cannabis bien-être is tightening, leaving little room for molecular innovation.
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The market remains unstable, exposed to unannounced regulatory changes.
