Synthetic cannabis is a man-made, mind-altering chemical that can be addictive.  Synthetic Cannabinoids refer to a group of chemicals related to those found in the cannabis plant. You may hear or read about “synthetic marijuana” or “fake weed”.

Stores have marketed synthetic cannabis products as “safe” and (until recently) legal highs. These drugs can be sprayed on shredded plant material to be smoked. Additionally, synthetic cannabinoids are sometimes sold as liquids to be used in vaporizers and inhaled. Man-made cannabinoid compounds which are not “natural” make up these products.

For many years, these drugs were easily available in drug paraphernalia shops, novelty stores, gas stations, and even through the Internet. You may have seen packets sold as potpourri or herbal incense and labeled “not for human consumption”. Users sometimes request specific brand names. For example, “K2” or “Spice” are common names for synthetic cannabis.

There are over five hundred other brand names that have existed for these products. This list of brand names will help you know what to be on the lookout for. More recently, authorities have made it illegal to sell, buy, or possess these drugs. Lawmakers are concerned because synthetic cannabinoids can be addictive and have no medical benefit.

Health and drug officials say the danger is due to the unregulated nature in which they are made. Kansas was the first state to ban synthetic marijuana, and many other states including Ohio have passed similar legislation.

The effects of synthetic cannabis can be unpredictable and severe. People have experienced life threatening complications from taking these drugs. Synthetic cannabinoids seem to bind even more strongly to the brain cell receptors than THC. The resulting health effects can be unpredictable, dangerous, and long-lasting.

If you are worried about an adolescent using a synthetic marijuana product, call 513.792.1272 today for an assessment.