Man describes his addiction to synthetic marijuana

Synthetic Marijuana Addictions

Synthetic Marijuana Addiction & Overdose

Marijuana addiction and overdose are causing an alarm in many states that legalized the drug.  Aside from pure marijuana, synthetic marijuana is on the rise.  “Spice” or synthetic marijuana addiction is becoming a threat to the lives of many people in the United States. In August, mass marijuana overdose was suspected when a group of people in the Skid Row area of Los Angeles was transported to hospitals.

Symptoms of synthetic marijuana overdose include seizures, violent behavior and altered levels of consciousness.  It is very hard to predict its content because it is synthetic and not pure form of the drug. Known as “fake weeds” it is stronger than marijuana and more dangerous and may endanger the life of the user.

The use of “Spice” or synthetic marijuana is very popular among the homeless population in the Skid Row. Synthetic marijuana addiction and overdose are alarming that many people in that area have been using the synthetic drug despite notice that it can cause overdose and death.

Content of Synthetic Cannabinoids

Synthetic Cannabinoids contain mind-altering chemicals that are available in liquids so users can inhale it or vaporize it in   e-cigarettes or used as liquid incense. It is made by spraying the chemicals on the dried leaves.

“Fake weeds” are marketed as safe due to claims that it is made from chemicals extracted from real marijuana plant. It falls under the category “new psychoactive substances" (NPS) that are illegal and made to imitate the effects of illicit drugs.

People struggling with marijuana addiction may find the substance cheaper compared to the real cannabis. Synthetic marijuanas are sold in colorful foil packs and as liquid incense. Common market names include “K2,” “Spice,” “Black Mamba,” “Joker,” “Kush” and “Kronic.”

Authorities have warned its sell, buy and possession as illegal as synthetic marijuana has no medical claims and can cause the danger of developing an addiction. Today, manufacturers are still able to market the drug by modifying its content on the packagings.

Use of Synthetic Marijuana

Synthetic marijuana is often smoked, brewed as a tea or mixed with real marijuana. Other people use it by vaporizing it by putting it on e-cigarettes.

Are synthetic cannabis addictive?

Yes, it is highly addictive. People addicted to this drug experience vomiting and have a fast heart rate. They also display violent behavior and have suicidal thoughts.  They may also experience an increase of  blood pressure, blood supply to the heart is lessened, kidney damage and seizures.

Users reported withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, headaches, anxiety and depression when they try to cut its use. Synthetic marijuana addiction is very possible and the risk of overdose is very high. Those who have developed tolerance for this type of drug go to the extent of overdosing, leading to fatalities.