Since the first products were released in 2002, synthetic cannabinoids, commonly known as synthetic marijuana or fake weed, have been utilised by many as an alternative to marijuana. They frequently assert that they are made of “natural” materials derived from a range of plants, despite the fact that these man-made items were developed in laboratories to aid researchers in their study of the cannabinoid system in the human brain.
There are hundreds of synthetic cannabinoids, and their effects can vary widely and possibly pose a hazard to life.
How do you recognise fake weed?
A blend of dried leaves from common herbal plants is often included in synthetic marijuana. They come in various hues, including green, brown, blonde, and red, and are frequently offered in tiny packets that measure about two by three inches. The packets are often plastic zip bags or colourful foil packs. Some internet vendors of legal fake cannabis products include warnings like “not for human use” in their product descriptions.
So what does synthetic marijuana do?
The same brain cell receptors that THC or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol work in fake marijuana (the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana that gets you high). Usually, it is smoked, made into tea, or vaped. Numerous of these items are sold legally as “herbal incense” or “potpourri.”
Some users of herbal buds claim that while the high is comparable to that of marijuana, it doesn’t last as long. Others feel relaxed instead of getting the “head high” that genuine marijuana causes. The “harsh” flavour, which some claim “makes your throat burn and your lungs suffer” long after you smoke, is also important to mention.
It is hard to determine the kind and quantity of chemicals in each product, as well as what the synthetic weed will do to you because there are no regulations for producing, packaging, or selling synthetic weed.
What are the common side effects of synthetic marijuana?
The impact synthetic marijuana products may have on the human body is largely unknown, despite advances in research. It is mentioned in the DEA report that overdoses have resulted in fatal heart attacks. Similarly, these synthetics have been linked to acute renal injury that requires hospitalisation and dialysis.
In addition to the previously described short-term symptoms, those who have taken synthetic marijuana have also reported experiencing seizures, tremors, and anxiety. It is unknown at this time whether these observed symptoms will endure, especially in teenagers and young adults.
Signs of fake weed usage
Behaviours:
- Burning incense
- Purchase or use of eye drops
- Having dried herbs or plants
- Using vape pens or rolling papers
- Receiving suspicious letters or items and acting strangely or secretively
Physical symptoms:
- Burning incense
- Purchase or use of eye drops
- Having dried herbs or plants
- Using vape pens or rolling papers
- Receiving suspicious letters or items and acting strangely or secretively
How long before synthetic marijuana is out of your system?
Synthetic cannabinoids can stay in your system for a variety of times, depending on their type, administration method (inhalation or ingestion), dosage, and frequency of usage. Many people use these synthetic medications in an effort to dodge positive drug tests for job, rehab, or legal reasons as they rarely provide a positive result on the majority of routine urine drug tests.