Side Effects of Synthetic Marijuana Abuse
Imitation Marijuana, Real Harm: The Side Effects of Synthetic Marijuana Abuse
Side Effects of Synthetic Marijuana Abuse: K2 or “spice” are classified as synthetic cannabinoids. Synthetic cannabinoids are a class of drugs which are made of man-made mind-altering chemicals. These chemicals are typically sprayed onto dry and shredded material which is typically smoked, in addition, the drug is also sold in chemical form to be administered through vaporization or inhaled in electronic cigarettes. Synthetic cannabinoids or K2 is categorized as a new psychoactive substance due to its recent popularity. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, these chemicals are referred to as cannabinoids because they are associated with the chemicals found in marijuana. As a result of sharing the similarities shared, synthetic cannabinoids are often referred to as synthetic marijuana.
These drugs are typically perceived as a “safe’ alternative to using real marijuana, however, synthetic marijuana is very dangerous. Synthetic marijuana has the ability to have a more powerful effect on than marijuana, this is a result of the effect of the drug being unpredictable. Synthetic marijuana is typically found in packages labeled “not for human consumption”, and some labels will claim that the drug is natural and contain materials from various plants.
The side effects of synthetic marijuana abuse can be detrimental to one’s health, as well as other aspects of their lives. In addition, one of the most common outcomes of synthetic marijuana abuse is developing a dependence on the drug. If you or your loved one are currently abusing or misusing synthetic marijuana, seek help today.
K2/Spice Drug Side Effects
The side effects of using synthetic cannabinoids vary and typically depend on how which variation of synthetic marijuana you have consumed, how much of the drug you used, and the route of administration when the drug was consumed. The pleasant K2/spice drug side effects are similar to those of marijuana, yet more intense and include an elevated mood, relaxation, and altered perception. However, the not so pleasant effects and dangerous side effects of using synthetic marijuana can be detrimental to one’s health. Common side effects associated with the use of synthetic marijuana include:
- Paranoia
- Psychotic episodes
- Increased heart rate
- Agitation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dry Mouth
- Red eyes
- Sweating
- Loss of control
- Uncontrollable movements of the body
- Seizures
- Anxiety
- Hallucinations
These are just some of the many unpleasant side effects associated with using synthetic marijuana. Long-term use of synthetic marijuana can cause these side effects to be more severe.
Long-Term Effects of K2 Use
The long-term effects of K2 use are still unknown due to lack of research on the newly popularized drug. However, similar to the long-term use of any substance, there are negative consequences associated with using synthetic marijuana. A common outcome of synthetic marijuana use is increased risk for having a seizure, as well as heart damage. Long-term use of this drug can also cause an addiction to form, causing the user to lose control over their use of the drug and an inability to stop using.
What Does K2 Do To Your Brain?
Synthetic cannabinoids act on the same exact brain cell receptors as THC, which is an ingredient found in marijuana. Although there has been minimal research on the effects of synthetic cannabinoids on the brain, it is believed that these chemicals have a stronger bind to the same cell receptors that THC effects. As a result of the lack of research, the effects of synthetic marijuana on the brain are unpredictable. However, it is still believed that synthetic marijuana is dangerous and addictive.
Due to the unpredictability of the effects of this drug, using them can be dangerous or even deadly. If you or your loved one are using synthetic marijuana, now is the time to stop.
If you find yourself unable to stop, seek professional help immediately. At WhiteSands Treatment we can help you or your loved one successfully overcome your synthetic marijuana use problem.
If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.