Last updated : November 18, 2024
The designer drug synthetic marijuana is sold under the guise of being a natural and safe product, but it actually contains lab-created and potentially dangerous cannabinoids. Synthetic marijuana products became available in the U.S. in 2008. They were sold under names such as K2, Spice, Kush and many others. Marketed as herbal incense or herb-based potpourri, Spice and similar drugs feature labels stating that they are not intended for human consumption, but they coyly suggest that the contents can produce a natural high; this reveals the product’s true purpose as a recreational drug. Users typically smoke the product, but they may also make an herbal infusion from it, or add it to foods. Before 2012, when the sale of cannabinoids was banned nationwide, synthetic marijuana was readily available in head shops and convenience stores and through online retailers.
What Is Actually In Synthetic Marijuana?
Its packaging boasts 100 percent natural ingredients, but this is false advertising. Although synthetic pot does contain dried plant matter in the form of hard-to-identify shredded leaves and flowers, it is far from natural. The potpourri-like mix is sprayed with chemicals that when smoked or ingested produce effects similar to those of natural marijuana plants. The cannabinoids used in making the products are unregulated and unstudied. Researchers simply don’t know enough about them to determine their toxicity or long-term effects on the human body and brain. Unfortunately, emergency room doctors and other medical professionals have observed their dangers firsthand. Synthetic marijuana products are held responsible for a number of alarming, serious and possibly fatal reactions.
The Effects of Fake Marijuana
Cannabinoid compounds target the same cell receptors as those affected by THC, the active agent in marijuana, but many believe that the effects are even stronger. Many synthetic marijuana abusers experience mood changes, altered perception and a sense of relaxation after using the drug. However, others report negative reactions including psychotic episodes, severe anxiety and violent hallucinations.
Who Uses Products Like Spice and K2?
The products are particularly appealing to young adults, especially males. They are relatively easy to obtain and affordable, and most people believe them to be natural and therefore inherently safe. The compounds do not show up on older drug tests, although newer tests that detect them are now in use. Synthetic pot products are second only to real marijuana in their popularity among high school seniors.
Serious Medical Consequences
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) claims that synthetic marijuana use was responsible for 11,400 emergency room admissions in 2010. Doctors and poison control officials report a number of alarming symptoms associated with the products. Mental and emotional effects include panic, agitation, psychosis, suicidal ideation, violent behavior, confusion and catatonia. Neurological symptoms such as muscle spasms, seizures, trembling, headache and dizziness have occurred. The substances are also linked to cardiovascular symptoms and events such as tachycardia, stroke and heart attack. A few cases of kidney damage have been reported.
How Are Officials Battling the Problem?
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has officially banned five cannabinoid chemicals used in making synthetic marijuana, but manufacturers of the products try to stay one step ahead of the law by substituting alternative chemicals that have not yet been banned. Until authorities have complete control over the situation, the best defense is communication. Warn young people of the true nature and potential danger of synthetic marijuana. Report suspicious new products, and take action if you suspect that a friend or loved one is using the drug.
