Synthetic Marijuana: Addiction, Withdrawal, Overdose & Treatment

Marijuana is a drug that is used by millions of people across the world. While there are legitimate uses for marijuana, it can also be abused. Synthetic marijuana, which is made from chemicals that are meant to mimic the effects of THC, can be even more dangerous than traditional marijuana.

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at synthetic marijuana: what it is, how it’s used, the dangers associated with it, and treatment options for those who are addicted.

What Is Synthetic Marijuana?

Synthetic Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabis is a type of cannabinoid that affects the brain in ways that are similar to marijuana. This drug is also known as K2/Spice.

The after-effects of consumption are caused by receptors to which the weed’s main ingredient, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and its chemical compound cannabidiol (CBD) attach.

Cannabinoids are the occurring compounds of a Sativa plant which marijuana also comes from and was first sold in the US only in 2008. Differences between synthetic marijuana and actual weed can be difficult to identify because the effects of both drugs can be similar. Cannabis is known for a feeling of heightened relaxation or sensation that leads to psychological reactions from the drug.

What Does Synthetic Marijuana Look Like?

Deriving from its name, synthetic marijuana is made to look like real weed. Experts and former users mention ways to differentiate artificial weed from its authentic counterpart:

• They look the same at first glance but not entirely – synthetic weed is more tapered, finely cut, and smoother than the original drug and feels artificially sticky. Its distinct artificial smell bears a similarity to plant spices, potpourri, and herbal tobacco; Spice is typically found in a greenish-brown color.
• Synthetic weed chemicals are mixed with plant materials – tea leaves, dried herbs, and grass make the drug completely passable in Chinese laboratories and integrative with psychoactive ingredients like THC. These are either rolled into bundles, sold in colorful and attractive commercial packages, or stocked in vials.
• Follow the buds – Authentic marijuana holds distinct flower buds from the plant itself. From a microscope view, there is a nub that comes from the stem. A thick stalk and secretory gland contain cannabinoid sacs, terpenoids, and sugars that look like rows of beads and come in different sizes.

What Is Synthetic Marijuana Used For?

The development, potency, and effects of the drug have long been pursued by scientific research. There has been no extent of study for quasi-legal marijuana and therefore the risks of it cannot be explained in full length. A hypothetical reason for the increasing number of synthetic marijuana users is due to its effects. Despite the frequency of narcotic use, what matters is the sensation and experience felt after intake.

In sensible doses, cannabis gives a user a sense of relaxation and temporary euphoria. Other symptoms from the drug include Increased awareness, libido, muscle relaxation, and distorted visual and auditory impressions. Unfortunately, those who continually take the drug are misinformed that cannabis and its synthetic counterpart have the same effects. With synthetic weed, symptoms of intake are negative and are proven toxic and sometimes lethal.

A profile for K2/Spice users conducted often shows them in depressing and chaotic life situations and undergoing a constant feeling of hopelessness. Because the drug is often cheaper than weed, it is more accessible and easier to purchase. A regular intake of synthetic weed often suppresses emotions of sadness and fear.

How Does Synthetic Marijuana Work?

Synthetic cannabinoids are more effective at binding cannabinoid receptors and therefore give the illusion of a high – through hallucinations and paranoia.

If not careful, this drug can be exponentially more potent than marijuana due to the combination of its psychoactive ingredients with other cannabinoids that can affect the brain.

How Long Before You Can Feel the Effects of Synthetic Marijuana?

The time it takes for the effects of synthetic weed to set in is about as fast as regular marijuana. You can expect to feel high anywhere from 2-5 minutes after smoking.

The high from synthetic marijuana generally lasts 1-3 hours, although some people report feeling the effects for up to 8 hours.

How Long Does Synthetic Marijuana Stay In Your System?

Cannabinoids in K2/Spice have a different chemical structure and metabolism from its psychoactive ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol. It does not, however, mean that peak levels of attaining the drug’s initial effect change. Synthetic weed still leaves the body quickly once it is taken. Factors affecting cannabinoid metabolism are body mass, gender, age, hydration level, food consumption, and liver/kidney function.

Concentrations of synthetic marijuana are maximized by the body based on how it is taken. Smoking the drug estimates a minimum of 10-45 minutes to reach its high. When taken orally, it can stay in the system for (5) five days after intake. When brewed in liquids or tea, the peak levels are longer.

Blood test – 24 to 48 hours
Urine test- 72 hours
Saliva test – 24 to 48 hours
Hair test – 90 days

What are the Short and Long-term Effects of Synthetic Marijuana?

There are several symptoms that we need to address. Firstly, look at for these signs to indicate synthetic cannabinoid use:

● Elevated mood/heightened emotions or
● Extreme relaxation and calmness
● Confusion and cognition problems
● The tendency to be depressed
● Having suicidal thoughts
● Violent behavior

A long-time user may feel the physiological and emotional effects if the drug is discontinued. These are in the form of:

● Headache
● Nausea
● Intense cravings
● Breathing problems
● Chest pain and increased heart rate
● Palpitations
● Sleep deprivation
● Seizures
● Extreme feelings of hunger
● Increased emotions specifically from anger or anxiety
● Sudden change in body temperature
● Sudden extreme loneliness
● Isolation
● Flu-like symptoms such as aching joints

Synthetic weed is composed of five main chemicals: cannabicyclohexanol, CP-47,497, JWH-018, JWH-017, and JWH-200. All of which are psychoactive ingredients and cannabinoid receptors. Combining two of these chemicals is potent enough–having to combine five chemicals can be lethal especially if the effect on an individual’s response is unknown.

Is Synthetic Marijuana Addictive?

Synthetic cannabinoids have a high potential for abuse and psychological dependence. There can be over 140 ingredients in different degrees and doses that make up synthetic marijuana.

It is not advisable to take it in irregular doses as it poses harmful effects on the brain and its comprehension. These drugs do not have any standards when it comes to production, manufacturing, or packaging.

Synthetic cannabinoids can easily be contaminated or ingested with other drugs (like flakka) that can make them more toxic.

What Are the Withdrawal Symptoms?

Some of the most common side effects associated with synthetic marijuana include insomnia, panic attacks, and fast heartbeats.

People who use this drug often experience mood swings such as anger or depression along with diarrhea; they might also become restless if not satisfied enough with their sleep pattern’s improvement after consuming it.

What Causes Synthetic Marijuana Overdose? Signs of an Overdose

The effects of synthetic marijuana can vary depending on the person taking it and the specific mixture of chemicals they are taking. However, it is believed that an overdose can occur when someone takes too much of the substance or if they are taking a particularly potent mixture.

Additionally, if synthetic marijuana is mixed with other unknown substances, this can also increase the risk of an overdose. Therefore, it is always important to be aware of the risks involved before taking any drugs, including synthetic marijuana.

A person who may be overdosing may exhibit high levels of paranoia, anxiety, and loss of consciousness.

What Should You Do If Someone Is Overdosing?

If you think that someone is overdosing on synthetic marijuana, it is important to call emergency help immediately.

It is also important to stay with the person. Make sure that they stay safe and do not hurt themselves. Try to keep them calm and comfortable until help arrives.

How Do You Treat Synthetic Marijuana Addiction? Detox & Treatment

If you or someone you love is addicted to synthetic marijuana, it’s important to seek professional help. Many people who use synthetic marijuana will eventually find that they cannot quit without qualified addiction treatment.

There are many different ways to treat synthetic marijuana addiction, but the most important thing is to get help from a professional drug rehab that can tailor a treatment plan specifically for you.

Final Thoughts: Addressing Synthetic Marijuana Abuse and Addiction

Whether you’re hooked on regular weed or synthetic marijuana, it’s important to get help. Synthetic marijuana addiction is a serious problem, and it requires professional treatment.