Last updated : November 11, 2024
In some ways, synthetic marijuana behaves in the body like marijuana and is often chosen because of the false belief that it is safe and for the intensity of the high it produced. Side effects include psychotic effects like anxiety, hallucinations and even paranoia. Synthetic marijuana has become widely regarded as a public health crisis in some communities, sparking legislation in most states.
Why the concern?
Synthetic marijuana is a powerful substance that is relatively new. It is is capable of being 100 times more powerful than regular marijuana. It typically attracts teens and is marketed as “Spice” “Blaze”or other names in some areas. The seemingly harmless substance has led to multiple deaths among those experimenting with the drugs. The unpredictability of the high is a concern in the medical community. Patients treated after using the drug can be mildly agitated or appear to be heavily sedated. In severe cases, some patients actually have to be restrained in order to be properly controlled.
How does synthetic marijuana affect the brain?
The cannabinoid compounds can bind to the receptors and produce an unpredictable high like the key ingredient THC in marijuana. The mental effects on the brain are stronger than real marijuana. It causes hallucinations and psychotic episodes to develop. In some cases, a person can be at risk of suicide as the brain chemistry is dramatically altered. People experience paranoia, confusion and severe hallucinations when using the substance. Some people even experience panic attacks as a reaction to the high.
How does synthetic marijuana affect the body?
The drug affects the body in creating a very dangerous high. The addictive substance produces a range of effects on the body. The heartbeat starts to race and elevates the blood pressure. People can experience a range of muscle problems, including spasms, tremors and seizures. Nausea and vomiting frequently occur and the drug can reduce the amount of blood transported to the heart, which can lead to myocardial ischemia.
Trends in synthetic marijuana
One in nine high school seniors admitted using synthetic cannabinoids during the past year. The drug has quickly become one of the most commonly abused illegal drugs among high school seniors. The increased usage among teens has been largely fueled by the widespread availability of the substances in area corner stores. Fifty-one new synthetic drugs were introduced in 2012 and 76 additional compounds were discovered.
In 2011, 11 percent of teenagers in their senior year of high school reported having used synthetic marijuana. Any person who has ever experimented with the drug is at risk for developing an addiction and can end up needing medical treatment after using it for the first time. Trends indicate that usage among teens will continue to grow as new strains are introduced. The accessible substance is available on the Internet and in smaller convenience stores, which makes it a challenge for parents who want to keep their children safe.
