There’s a common misconception that synthetic drugs, such as synthetic marijuana, are safer or less damaging than their naturally-occurring counterparts. However, this misunderstanding can cause a person to develop a synthetic marijuana addiction or accidentally overdose. Learning about the danger of synthetic drugs can help you save the lives of people you know and love.
Tainted Synthetic Marijuana sends 15 to Los Angeles Hospital
Synthetic Marijuana, also known as K2 or Spice, sent 15 people living in downtown Los Angeles’ Skid Row to the hospital last weekend. A tainted batch of the synthetic cannabinoid was injected and many were found collapsed on the streets. In addition to the Los Angeles injuries, San Diego saw a dozen people hospitalized after using the drug late last year. This problem has been reoccurring in several other states such as Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, Colorado and New York, where users have been hospitalized after using the drug.
Spice is one of many legal designer drugs, which mimic the side effects of common street drugs. Despite their legal status, they cause havoc amongst the public and law enforcement. The DEA has identified 400 new designer drugs, many of which are made in crude labs in China, and then distributed throughout the US.
The Danger of Synthetic Drugs
Since Spice’s introduction into the drug trade years ago, its manufacturers have continuously changed the chemical makeup of the drug to dodge FDA.
State, local, and federal government officials have called synthetic drug use a major risk to the public’s health. In 2015 alone, poison centers received reports of 7,762 adverse reactions to synthetic marijuana. While Spice continues to be sold at head shops across the US, safety remains a serious concern.
Recovery from Addiction
Morningside Recovery is a premier addiction treatment facility located in the heart of Orange County, California. We specialize in treating patients struggling with addiction and co-occurring mental illnesses. If you or a loved one are struggling with Spice addiction and need Spice addiction treatment, please don’t hesitate to call.
You can reach out to us anytime at 855-631-2135. Our treatment specialists are available are available anytime 24/7 to answer any questions you may have about the danger of synthetic drugs and will help you find the right treatment option for you.