Spice/K2, also known as synthetic cannabinoids or fake weed, is a man-made mind-altering substance. It is sold as a liquid which may be vaporized or inhaled through e-cigarettes or sprayed on shredded and dried plant material to be smoked. Referred to as liquid or herbal incense, synthetic cannabinoids share some characteristics with cannabis and are often marketed as a legal and safe alternative to marijuana. However, the use of spice may induce graver brain damage than marijuana can. The effects of synthetic cannabinoids can be unpredictable and thus, life-threatening. In order to counter the effects of Spice abuse, people addicted to it need to undergo a comprehensive 30, 60 or 90 day substance abuse treatment programs. The duration of this program would depend on their frequency and duration of abuse.
Synthetic cannabinoid belongs to a group of substances known as new psychoactive substances (NPS). These have only recently become available in the American market and produce the same effects as illegal drugs. Experts feel that some of these products may have been around for years and only recently got reintroduced in altered forms.
Easy to buy
Synthetic cannabinoids are packed in plastic bottles or colorful foil packets and are sold by their street names including “Joker,” “Spice,” “K2,” “Kush,” “Mamba,” and “Kronic.” They are easily obtainable over the internet, gas stations, novelty stores, and at drug paraphernalia shops. Since these substances do not have any medicinal value and have a high abuse potential, authorities consider their sale illegal.
Easy availability and the belief that these compounds are natural and harmless have accelerated their use among the young population. Besides, standard drug tests cannot identify the chemicals used in these products contributing further to their continued use.
Effect of Synthetic Cannabinoids on Brain
Synthetic cannabinoids act on the same cell receptors that are affected by the consumption of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the mind-altering chemical found in marijuana. There is a dearth of data exploring the effects of synthetic cannabinoids on the brain, however, researchers have shared that some of these chemicals bind to the receptors more strongly than THC does and may produce erratic and incurable effects. Some of the effects produced by these drugs include:
- Elevated mood
- Relaxation
- Extreme anxiety
- Confusion
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Symptoms of psychosis
- Altered perception
Other Health Effects of Synthetic Cannabinoids
Sometimes, people using synthetic cannabinoids are rushed to emergency rooms because of negative health outcomes like:
- Vomiting
- Rapid heart rate
- Suicidal thoughts
- Violent behavior
These compounds can elevate blood pressure and reduce blood supply to the heart, resulting in seizures and kidney damage. Their use is also associated with an increasing number of deaths.
Treating Spice/K2 Addiction
The not-very-defined legal status of K2 has made it an easy drug to abuse. As the active substance in K2 is man-made, its potency is much higher than that of THC, making the high associated with it incapacitating. Further, as the product varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, there is no saying what effects a particular batch of Spice may produce. These effects can range from extreme agitation, terrifying hallucinations to disabling seizures calling for reliable medical intervention at a renowned behavioral health center.
There are umpteen instances of people suffering severe cognitive difficulties, blindness, and partial paralysis owing to its use for just two weeks. Reports of several people dying from its consumption have also surfaced.
Though evidence for long-term health consequences of K2 use is still lacking, it is believed that people using Spice suffer vision problems. Some also complain of their other senses being affected and drug-induced psychosis. It is therefore essential to seek treatment for spice addiction at the earliest.
Invictus Health Group, a leading name in the field of addiction and mental health treatment, has partnered with treatment centers that offer holistic intervention plans for the treatment for spice addiction. They use everything from psychotherapies to alternative therapies to treat our patients’ mind, body, and soul.
Why Choose Invictus Health Group?
Invictus Health Group’s partners offer comprehensive treatment intermediations to manage an addiction to synthetic cannabinoids or spice/K2. We have partnered with treatment centers that provide a safe, secure, and structured detoxification process closely supervised by qualified and skilled professionals. Their treatment program comprises standard modalities complemented by therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and experiential therapies.
Addiction to an unpredictable drug like K2 may seem like a challenge. It is, albeit a scalable one. Allow Invictus Health Group to be a partner in your drug recovery process and help you at every step of the way. Call our helpline 866-548-0190 or chat online with a representative for further assistance.
