What is Spice?
Spice is a synthetic cannabinoid that can produce a wide variety of effects, including mild euphoria and hallucinations. Despite the dangers, many forms are still legal in the United States and continue to be sold in smoke shops, gas stations, and on the Internet.
In 2011, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) placed five synthetic cannabinoids on the Schedule I class of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Unfortunately, manufacturers can change a single molecule in Spice’s chemical makeup to produce a similar product that has not been placed on the DEA’s Schedule I list. In doing so, those producing these drugs can keep a slightly modified, yet similarly risky substance available for purchase on a legal market. To quit, patients may have to undergo Spice detox.
Spice Overdose
Many reported side effects from Spice are transient and, for the most part, mild. These include:
- Anxiety.
- Agitation.
- Abnormally fast heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
Spice’s effects can differ from person to person in intensity and severity. It may be challenging to determine if someone is experiencing an overdose or just a strong reaction to the drug. Before it comes to this, it is wise to seek K2 detox. The more severe side effects of Spice overdose include:
- Vomiting
- Violent behavior
- Confusion
- Paranoia
- Suicidal thinking or actions
- Seizures
In 2013, there were 2,613 calls to poison control centers regarding synthetic cannabinoid (Spice) exposure, and in 2010, 3.8% of calls were related to seizures caused by synthetic cannabinoids. As cannabinoid abuse has grown, so has the prevalence of reported cases of acute kidney injury and renal failure.
Spice Withdrawal
Mild to moderate Spice users are not likely to experience significant Spice or K2 withdrawal symptoms but may have mild anxiety and difficulty sleeping. The longer you use Spice, the more likely you are to experience withdrawal symptoms.
If you are a heavy user,K2 spice withdrawal withdrawal symptoms may be more severe and prolonged. Spice affects the cannabinoid 1 and 2 receptors (CB1R, CB2R) throughout the body, which are the same receptors that marijuana acts on.
Treatment: Detox
Synthetic marijuana detox is a process in which the body rids itself of toxic chemicals. Symptoms of withdrawal from Spice can be quite unpleasant— and even dangerous—making it difficult to safely detox at home if one’s dependence has been high.
It is necessary for those abusing Spice and/or other synthetic cannabinoids to seek professionally-monitored medical detox.
