K2, aka spice, is a synthetic cannabinoid drug that’s created to mimic the effects of marijuana with technically legal ingredients.
Generally, chemicals are sprayed on plant material or concentrated in liquid form to create K2. Then, the drug is packaged in colorful, eye-catching pouches and sold through legal loopholes as a health product or natural component [1]. While spice is supposed to be a legal, safe alternative to marijuana, the drugs are much more dangerous. Our drug and alcohol treatment center reveals the truth about spice, K2, and other forms of these synthetic drugs.
The Truth About K2
Because K2 is sold under many different suggested uses, it is not regulated like other substances a person may ingest. Many times, sellers list the drug as incense or even potpourri [2], meaning that it is not regulated at all. There are no regulations on K2 production or sales, and this is part of what makes K2 so dangerous. Lack of regulation, lack of uniform production, and constantly changing chemicals make K2 a guessing game. Manufacturers are always changing the ingredients, so users never know what they’re getting. Spice is usually smoked on plant leaves or used in vapes and e-cigarettes. The varying chemicals in spice act differently on the body than marijuana, producing unpredictable mental and physical effects.
What Are Signs of Overdose on K2?
More users are seeing signs of drug overdose when using K2 in any form. The drugs act on different systems in the mind and body, resulting in a wide range of overdose symptoms and dangers. Common signs of K2 overdose include:
- Rapid heart rate
- Hallucinations
- Agitation
- Pallor
- Vomiting
- Suicidal thoughts
- Unconsciousness
- Numbness
- Violent behavior
If you see signs of K2 overdose in yourself or a loved one, it’s imperative to get treatment for these symptoms. K2’s effects on the body are unpredictable [2], and professional medical attention is required to safely treat any overdose symptoms. Contact our drug and alcohol treatment center at 888-280-4763 for help treating spice addiction.
Sources:
- NIH, What are Synthetic Cannabinoids?
- DEA, K2/Spice
