Synthetic weed – also known as “Spice,” “K2,” “Black Mamba,” or “Crazy Clown” – is a manmade and chemically modified herbal substance that’s more potent than cannabis. Unlike natural marijuana, synthetic weed is manufactured in clandestine laboratories by combining numerous chemicals to create a more intense and potent version of the natural thing. Considering the higher doses of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient in weed, long-term users might find themselves in need of spice addiction treatment to recover and stop altogether.
Effects of Synthetic Weed
Synthetic marijuana affects the body similarly to natural marijuana but at a more intense and long-term rate. It can produce an altered perception of reality while producing feelings of realization and elevated mood. However, the side effects of synthetic weed can quickly go South, as batches of the drug usually contain significantly larger quantities of THC than natural cannabis.
For this reason, symptoms like altered perception occur more intensely. Other common side effects of K2 include:
- Hyperactivity
- Talkativeness
- Lethargy
- Mood swings
- Violent outbursts
- Mood swings
- Aggressive behavior
- High blood pressure
- Panic attacks
- Anxiety
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Confusion
- Altered perception of time and surroundings
- Delusions
- Rapid heart rate or heart palpitations
- Nausea and vomiting
- Paranoia
Long-term synthetic marijuana use increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, as well. These symptoms can develop into additional health problems that aren’t all reversible. Like a vicious cycle, these side effects can grow worse and worse, and many users attempt to self-medicate by continuing to use Spice. As a result, both physical dependence and addiction may develop.
Our Massachusetts inpatient drug rehab offers spice addiction treatment that incorporates various modalities to provide patients with physical and mental support during recovery. Our K2 Spice addiction treatment program begins with medical detox, which addresses withdrawal symptoms that are common among addicts.
Medically-supervised detox incorporates 24-hour care and medication assistance (as needed) to mitigate uncomfortable withdrawals. Not only does this ensure the client’s safety versus quitting cold turkey, but it also increases their chances of moving forward with treatment and sustaining their sobriety in the long term.
Addiction to Synthetic Weed: Signs to Look Out For
Since there are a large variety of chemical compounds that are used to make fake weed, the way in which symptoms occur may vary. Additionally, because this drug is often made in clandestine labs, potency and dosage also vary, which can impact the rate and severity at which side effects occur.
- Hyperactivity
- Lethargy
- Angry outbursts
- Physical aggression
- Muscle spasms
- Being unusually sleepy
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Seizures
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Elevated moods
- Depressive episodes
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
- Psychosis
In many cases, as drug use persists, the person’s friend groups and habits change. They may spend more time with people who also use drugs, and you may notice a lack of interest in doing things they’d usually do. They might also isolate themselves from loved ones. If your loved one displays any of these signs, our K2 addiction treatment can help.
What Does Synthetic Weed Look Like?
Usually, synthetic marijuana doesn’t resemble actual cannabis. Synthetic cannabis often takes the form of a blend of dried plant material or herbs, unlike the distinctive, identifiable appearance of marijuana with its green, leafy buds. Typically, synthetic compounds that target the same brain receptors as THC, the euphoric ingredient in marijuana, are sprayed or infused into these plant materials.
Due to the added chemicals, the look of synthetic marijuana can vary greatly, from a greenish-brown to a more brilliant and colorful blend. It is crucial to remember that the synthetic substances used in these items can be quite hazardous, and the range of appearances makes it difficult for users to determine the precise ingredients, which poses serious health hazards.
The appearance of synthetic cannabis might vary greatly between brands due to the lack of established manufacturing procedures and regulations. It is frequently packaged by manufacturers in tiny plastic bags or foil-lined packets and sold as incense or herbal smoking mixtures. Even certain products may be marked as “not for human consumption” in order to get over legislative limitations. It is important to keep in mind that because its composition and potency are frequently unknown, consuming synthetic cannabis can have serious and unforeseen effects on both physical and mental health.
Is Synthetic Marijuana Legal?
The status of Spice legality differs from country to country and within different states or areas. Due to health concerns and legal issues, some synthetic marijuana products are considered illegal in many areas. Authorities have found it difficult to keep up with the rapid appearance of new variants due to the chemical compositions of these substances, which has led to the adoption of special regulations or bans that target particular chemicals or their derivatives.
Numerous instances of adverse reactions, including serious health problems and fatalities, have been linked to synthetic marijuana. Authorities have a cautious attitude towards these chemicals because of their dynamic character and the difficulties in identifying individual chemical constituents. The legal status of synthetic marijuana may have changed after the last update. For this reason, people should check the most recent laws and regulations in their particular area to accurately ascertain the legality at the moment.
K2 Addiction Treatment
Synthetic drugs often contain various chemicals, which are usually unknown to the user. Due to the secretive way these drugs are produced, doses and potency are unpredictable, and the risks are high. Long-term Spice use can also lead to addiction, a disorder in which an individual is unable to control their use of a particular drug.
Drug addiction can have physical, mental, financial, and social consequences, eventually taking over a person’s entire life. If you or someone you care about is caught in addiction, don’t wait to get help. Our drug rehab in Massachusetts provides safe and effective treatment for spice addiction that can make long-term sobriety a possibility.
Recovery is possible for everyone. For more information about our treatment for synthetic weed addiction or any of our other Massachusetts drug rehab programs, contact Clearbrook Treatment Centers today.
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