In recent years, there’s been an increase in the number of media reports on users of synthetic cannabinoids. Commonly referred to by names such as ‘Spice’ or ‘K2’, the most recent reported case involvedfive UK students being hospitalised after use. But what are the chemicals present in ‘spice’ ...

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If you’ve ever had to undergo a surgical procedure, be it at the dentists or in a hospital, you’re likely to have encountered some of the molecules featured in today’s graphic. We’re already looked atinhalational anaesthetics in a previous graphic; today, we take a look at chemicals that can be ...

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The Chemistry of a Grapefruit

You may have heard of ‘the grapefruit juice effect’ – a range of medications recommend avoiding grapefruits or grapefruit juice whilst you are taking them, due the unfavourable interactions with the medication and the unwanted side effects this can cause. So, what chemical compounds cause these ...

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It’s that time of year where a fair few of us (in the Northern Hemisphere, at least) are probably suffering from a coldof some description. The common symptom, that of a blocked nose, is probably one of the most irritating, but thankfully, nasal decongestants exist to provide relief. But how do ...

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