Danger Exists from Use of Synthetic Cannabinoids

The Alabama Department of Public Health and the Medical Association cautions the public about the hazards associated with the use and the risk to the public from synthetic cannabinoids also known as synthetic marijuana.

Users of the synthetic mixtures typically experience symptoms that include rapid heart rate, nausea and vomiting, agitation, confusion, sleepiness, hallucinations, kidney and respiratory problems.

The designer drug substances consist of dried plant material sprayed with synthetic cannabinoids and any mixture of other unknown chemicals including pesticides and rat poison. The chemical compounds reportedly stimulate the same brain areas affected by marijuana, and they have a high potential for abuse. These synthetic drugs are very dangerous and can be deadly said Dr. Karen Landers, pediatrician and Assistant State Health Officer.

“Responses to these chemicals can be unpredictable. People have experienced coma, kidney failure, and heart attacks just to mention some of the effects experienced by users. Please do not take the risk by using these products,” Dr. Landers stated.

Hundreds of different variants are marketed under names that include “Spice,” “K2,” “Spice Gold,” “Sence,” “Genie,” “Zohai,” “Yucatan Fire,” “Smoke,” “Sexy Monkey,” “Black Mamba” and “Skunk.”

The possession or sale of chemical compounds typically found in these synthetic substances is unlawful.