K2 spice is a harmful substance that mostly appeals to millennial’s with a perception that it is an innocuous natural high. K2 spice can be purchased in local bodegas and gas stations and is advertised as a “synthetic” weed. Synthetic marijuana is far from natural and can have a number of harmful side effects. It can also be addictive, and can cause severe withdrawal symptoms in those who stop using. Most countries and states have banned or are looking to ban this substance from being sold to the public, but many chemicals used in synthetic marijuana — which killed three people between 2010 and 2015 — are still legal. Producers of k2 spice continually change the chemical compound, thereby exploiting a legal loophole and drug test detection. New York City, for example, has banned the use or sale of any version of the drug in an attempt to close some of the loopholes for manufacturers and distributors of K2.
A person using k2 is more likely to experience serious adverse effects than a person smoking natural cannabis. These adverse effects may include psychotic symptoms such as paranoia and hallucinations. Spice use has been implicated in cases of kidney failure and heart attacks. With reported effects including reduced blood flow to the heart, abuse of these substances can lead to severe and lasting heart conditions.
Harmful Side Effects
- Increased heart rate.
- Hypertension.
- Myocardial ischemia.
- Vomiting.
- Hallucinations.
- Paranoia.
- Severe anxiety.
- Panic attacks.
- Violent Behavior
Long Term Effects
Unlike marijuana, long term effects of spice use includes withdrawal symptoms that can be quite severe.
- Headache.
- Diaphoresis (sweating).
- Tremors.
- Drug cravings.
- Mood changes / depression.
- Suicidal thoughts
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), K2 stays in a person’s system for a long time, and the long-term effects of the drug are still not fully known. While new psychoactive substances like K2 are difficult to control due to the ever-changing chemistry involved in the making of the drug, authorities have been cracking down significantly in recent years.
The scary thing is that k2 spice is easily accessible and the fact that it is popular among younger people. Just because it is supposedly legal does not make it better than drugs you get in the streets. Whether legal or illegal, addiction can happen if these drugs are taken in large doses or for prolonged periods of time. It is important to intervene or get the help necessary if you or someone you know is struggling with K2/Spice abuse. There are plenty of rehab programs and N/A meetings that can help put individuals on the right path towards recovery. Withdrawal is an unstable time for an individual looking to recover through a physical dependence on a substance, so medical supervision is advised.
Be the first to comment