A mother’s worst fears were realized when her 10th-grade daughter was given drug-laced candy at school by an older student.
The Florida high schooler was offered some gummies from a classmate, only to endure the negative effects of synthetic THC. When the effect of the THC candy started to kick in, the student was rushed to the hospital. Though she is improving, the teenage girl was still experiencing some of the negative effects more than a day later.1
What is Synthetic THC and Why Is It Dangerous?
THC is the main psychoactive compound found in marijuana, but synthetic THC is a more dangerous drug that is created in labs to mimic and enhance the effects of normal THC. Taking candy laced with THC is just one way someone could potentially be exposed to this drug. Also known as the brand names K2 or Spice, synthetic THC can be both smoked and vaped. Although it is more dangerous than regular marijuana and THC, people still mistakenly believe that synthetic marijuana is safe.
A person who takes synthetic THC may experience euphoria and relaxation, but others may have a more adverse reaction. Synthetic THC may also lead to delusions, confusion, paranoia, anxiety, and hallucinations. People who have been taken to the emergency room for synthetic THC like the teenage girl often report symptoms such as vomiting, rapid heart rate, and nausea.2 There may also be long-term issues associated with synthetic THC use.
Contrary to popular belief, there is research to suggest that THC is both addictive and a gateway drug. For this reason, teenagers who experiment with THC or synthetic THC products may become dependent on them and eventually need an outpatient program to stop. If not for THC, they may also eventually turn to more dangerous drugs.
It Can Happen to Anyone
At our Pompano treatment center, we know that incidents like this one aren’t limited to schools, but could happen to anyone, anywhere. While drug-laced candy like the one given to the Florida high schooler seems innocent enough from the untrained eye, the teenage girl ended up in the hospital. Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated incident either. Drug dealers and even legitimate companies will often use fun or colorful packaging and products to market dangerous substances to teenagers and young adults. As a parent, it is important to be vigilant and aware of what your child is consuming.
If you are a parent and you believe your child is using drugs, get them help. At Banyan Pompano, we offer addiction treatment programs in Florida for people 18 and over to help them move past these addictions and build better futures.
Call us today at 888-280-4763 to get more information about how we may be able to help.
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