Last updated : November 11, 2024
Synthetic marijuana refers to a range of dangerous designer drugs that became available in the United States in 2008. The products are generally marketed as herbal incense or potpourri. They contain plant materials laced with potent, lab-produced cannabinoid substances that are intended to mimic the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the ingredient in natural marijuana that makes users feel relaxed or high. Sold under the names K2, Kush, Spice and many others, the products sport labels that warn against human consumption but vaguely hint at the products’ true purpose. Until the sale of synthetic cannabinoids was banned in 2012, Spice and similar products could be purchased legally in smoke shops, convenience stores and online. Users typically smoke the products, but they can also be made into teas or even added to baked goods.
What’s Really Inside Those Packages?
Although synthetic marijuana products claim to be 100 percent natural, and some boast a variety of medicinal or naturally psychoactive plants, the true botanical content has rarely been accurately identified. A mixture of leaves, twigs and flowers that resembles potpourri is sprayed with the chemical cannabinoids and packaged in small, colorful pouches. Since the chemicals used in the products are untested and unregulated, authorities know very little about how they affect the human brain and body. Products like Spice and K2 have been associated with countless cases of emergency room admissions for serious and potentially fatal reactions.
Effects of Synthetic Marijuana
The cannabinoid compounds used in synthetic marijuana act on the same cell receptors as the ones targeted by the THC in natural cannabis. The effects of the synthetic drugs may actually be stronger. Users report elevated mood, altered perception and deep relaxation similar to the effects produced by smoking a joint. Not every synthetic marijuana user has a positive experience. Some report paranoia, anxiety, panic and hallucinations.
Who Uses Synthetic Marijuana
Products like Spice and K2 are appealing to young adults and teens because they claim to be natural, they are easy to obtain and affordable, and until recently, they did not show up on routine drug tests. The popularity of synthetic marijuana is second only to natural marijuana among high school seniors. It is especially favored by males. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has acted to make five common chemicals used in synthetic marijuana preparations illegal. Makers of the products try to stay a step ahead and evade regulations by substituting chemicals that are not yet banned.
Serious Medical Consequences
According to the .S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), synthetic marijuana use resulted in 11,400 emergency room visits in 2010. Physical symptoms and serious medical disorders associated with synthetic marijuana use include the following.
- Agitation and anxiety
- Increased heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle spasms
- Catatonia
- Seizures
- Trembling
- Psychotic episodes
- Violent hallucinations
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
- Violence towards others
- Dizziness, headaches
- Confusion
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Kidney damage
- Stroke or heart attack
How to Handle a Synthetic Marijuana Emergency
If synthetic marijuana use causes symptoms, local poison control centers can help callers determine if it is safe to stay at home, or the victim needs to be treated at a hospital. Dial 911 immediately if the person stops breathing, collapses or has an apparent seizure. Many young adults are not aware of the dangers of synthetic pot. They may simply assume it is a safe and natural product. Share your knowledge about dangerous products like Spice and K2; it could save a life.
