Refers to laboratory created compounds that mimic the effects of cannabis.
Most common strains include JWH-018, JWH-073, JWH-200, C7 and C8.
In 2012 11.3% of high school seniors in United States smoked synthetic marijuana in the past year.
Studies have shown that the highest rates are encountered among LGBTQ individuals 27% reporting to ever use synthetic cannabis.
In all studies over 90% of individuals who reported synthetic cannabinoid use also reported history of marijuana use, and between 77 and 84% have a concomitant history of cigarette smoking.
Extremely potent agonists of cannabinoid receptors with high affinity to these receptors leading to longer half-life in some strians and can produce active metabolites.
Increase potency results in exaggerated side effect profile compared with natural cannabis.
Herb or plant-base are sprayed with synthetic cannabis compounds, and other toxic chemicals also added.
Ref2242ed to as K2. Spice, Aroma, and Black mamba among other names.
Probably the second leading the drug use among high school seniors.
Higher rates of use among at risk populations including: lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and or those questioning LGBTQ community, active military personnel, and young men engaged in the criminal justice system.
Smoking synthetic marijuana lasts 3-4 hours vs. 2-3 hours for smoking marijuana.
Effects include: nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, dizziness, paranoia, hallucinations, drowsiness, and slurred speech.
Ingestion of agents can lead to seizures, psychosis, renal failure, stroke and myocardial infarction.
Associated with increased risk of psychosis and psychotic relapse in patients with underlying mental illness.
Psychopathology syndromes more than 5 times as common than with marijuana.
With synthetic cannabinoids there is increased frequency and level of agitation and lack of behavioral control in synthetic compared to natural marijuana use.
With synthetic cannabinoids and induction of psychosis the latter is associated with prolonged symptomatology and higher rate of long-term medication management and inpatient admissions.
Associated with addiction leading to physical symptoms of withdrawal.
Increasing emergency department visits related to the use of synthetic cannabinoids.