Synthetic marijuana, often called Spice or K2, is a drug developed in a lab. Manufacturers base the creation of these products offer natural cannabinoids but often make them stronger and, as a result, more dangerous. As with marijuana abuse, using these products can lead to drug addiction and dependence. At Solution Based Treatment, we offer programs to help overcome this addiction and restore health.
What Is Synthetic Marijuana?
Manufacturers develop these products in labs using chemical compounds. Their goal is to produce a product that is desirable in creating the same or enhanced effects of marijuana. The combination of ingredients ranges from one manufacturer to the next, making it hard to know what’s being ingested.
Synthetic marijuana is often called a “safe” alternative to the use of natural cannabis products. This is rarely the case. These products are dangerous and can cause several health risks. This includes:
- Rapid heart rate
- Excessive vomiting
- Confusion and paranoia
- Agitation
- Hallucinations
Additionally, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control reports multiple instances in which a person has experienced sudden death, severe internal bleeding, and seizures resulting from the use of synthetic marijuana. The use can lead to unexplained bruising and bleeding, loss of consciousness, and cognitive impairment making activities such as driving a car high risk. Some also note an increased risk of brain swelling.
Additional reports indicate synthetic marijuana can cause aggressive behavior. This may stem from confusion when consuming them. Intense anxiety can also occur. Mental health disorders may be worsened by the use of products like K2 and spice.
It’s unknown what is in many types of synthetic marijuana products. They are sold over the internet and through social media. Many combinations come from overseas, where there is little to no oversight into their production.
Can Synthetic Marijuana Lead to Drug Abuse?
Marijuana abuse, as well as synthetic marijuana use, can lead to addiction and dependence. These drugs interact with the central nervous system, changing the way the brain functions. Over time, the body becomes reliant on the drugs to function. This increases the risk of withdrawal symptoms when using. Tolerance can also develop, leading people to use more of the substance to get the same high. In some cases, this can also result in overdose due to the high toxicity.
Marijuana abuse is dangerous in its natural form. Over time, continued use causes damage to organs, breakdown of the lungs, including the development of popcorn lung, and inflammation. It can cause impairment to the brain and the lack of proper development of the brain when teens use these products. There is also evidence that the use of marijuana or synthetic forms can encourage the use of more addictive and dangerous drugs later in life, creating a lifetime battle with addiction.
Both marijuana and synthetic marijuana treatment can be effective. Restoring the function of the brain often requires medications as well as treatment for underlying mental health disorders. Many also find talk therapy can help with better management of stress and peer pressure.
Drug Abuse Treatment Close to Home
At Solutions Based Treatment, we provide full addiction and mental health care to individuals facing various challenges to their health and wellbeing. Treatment for synthetic marijuana is available and includes detox support as well as talk therapy. Some of the treatment programs we offer include:
- Drug detox services
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
Find the Support Needed at Solutions Based Treatment
Synthetic marijuana is a high-risk drug, but it is also capable of creating addiction quickly. For those who are facing marijuana abuse or another type of drug abuse, Solutions Based Treatment is available to help with innovative therapies and a fresh, new perspective. To learn more, call 833.999.1941 or connect online.