Synthetic marijuana works the same way as its natural counterpart. Consequently, there is a difficult way of telling the exact difference between the two as their similarities are very strong.
This man-made substance still contains the active components of the natural ones, that is, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Overall, the effect of these chemicals is inducing relaxation with some hallucinogenic and stimulant properties.
The main feature enhanced in man-made marijuana is its ability to bind in the specific receptors of the brain where the effects are stimulated and induced.
This substance is also known for other names which vary on the area and culture of the place. Some of its popular names include Spike, Scooby Snax, Paradise, Mr Happy, Kush, AK-47, Red X, Fake Weed, Crazy Clown, Blaze, Black Magic, Quasi-legal marijuana, Banana Cream Nuke, and more.
In terms of physical features, this artificial one is made to look very similar to its natural counterpart. In the market, one can see specific noticeable features of synthetic marijuana.
In contrast to the natural one, this artificial substance has smoother and finer physical features. It has a finer cut and there is more tapering in it. Likewise, the stickiness of this one does not entirely feel the same as the natural counterpart. The color and odor of this synthetic material are very similar to the original plant.
In order to enhance its natural look, it is mixed with other natural herbs such as dried tea leaves, tobacco, and dried grasses. Likewise, it is mostly sold in small rolled sticks in the market.
A strong distinction between the natural and synthetic ones is the presence of the bud. The natural plant has a unique flower bud while the man-made one does not have.
Synthetic Marijuana, How They Work
The means of using this artificial substance is through smoking or eating. Inhaling or smoking this substance provides a much quicker release of the effects compared to orally ingesting it.
Once the substance is smoked or inhaled, it goes into the lungs and directly mixes with the blood. This entire process up to the dissolution of the active chemicals in the blood happens very quickly. Likewise, the alveoli in the lungs have a large surface area making the spread of THC all over the body really quick. Consequently, smoking or inhalation provides a quick-release of the chemical’s relaxing and euphoric effect.
In contrast, eating this artificial substance is also possible. Once eaten, it goes into the stomach for digestion so that it can readily be absorbed in the blood. This process is gradual and slower compared to smoking it. In general, the duration of feeling the effects of the substance is gradual but lingers for a longer time compared to smoking.
Aside from that, these substances are also available in tablet and capsule form which can also be taken orally. In addition, some electronic cigarettes use liquids which contain a substantial amount of this artificial substance.
Overall, this substance like the natural one targets various receptors in the body. Commonly, these receptors are responsible for some vital functions such as immune system, appetite, coordination of body movements, sensation, and organs responsible for regulating hormones.
Addiction and Dangers
This synthetic drug is considered dangerous because of its high addictive potential. Likewise, other factors making it dangerous include its side effects and negative reactions when mixed with other substances.
The short and long-term side effects of this drug are relatively similar to that of natural marijuana. Some of these side effects include nervousness, depressed respiratory function, suicidal behaviors, organ failure, headaches, hallucinations, and mood disorders.
In terms of strength, the potency of this drug also depends on how it is being processed. For instance, K2 has twice strength or 100 times potency compared to the natural version of this drug. Oftentimes, having this substance as a food additive can amplify its strength.
In addition, mixing this substance with other drugs such as sedatives, hypnotics, benzos, and other illicit substances can amplify its hallucinogenic and stimulant properties.
Pairing it with other sedatives and hypnotics is dangerous as it can induce respiratory failure and severely low blood pressure which can lead to death. In contrast, pairing it with other stimulant drugs can induce an abnormal elevation in blood pressure which can lead to heart attack and cardiac arrest.
Meanwhile, longer duration of usage accompanied with higher dosage can lead to irreparable brain damage and behavioral disorders. Once the person starts using this substance, early signs of psychosis can readily manifest which can aggravate through continued usage.
If a person plans to undergo a drug test, one must know how long it stays inside the body. This gives the person enough time to fully prepare oneself before undergoing screening.
In the blood and urine, traces of this substance can still be detected 24 to 48 hours and 72 hours, respectively, after the last session of using it.
In the hair follicles, residues of this drug can still be detected up to 90 days since the last period of using the drug. Whereas, in the saliva, the presence of it can still be detected for 24 to 48 hours after the last period of usage.
Medications and Treatments
This addiction can still be treated as long as the patient is willing and self-motivated to under any treatment program.
The first step of any treatment program is detoxification and abstinence from the drug. This enables huge amounts of chemicals to be flushed out from the body. Along the way, this stage induces certain withdrawal symptoms which include stomach pain, agitation, panic attacks, difficulty sleeping, sudden mood shifts, and delusions.
Some medications are also prescribed to counter the effects of synthetic marijuana. For instance, Clonidine is given to patients suffering from elevated blood pressures. Likewise, this drug is also addressed for patients with ADHD.
In order to prevent relapse, Naltrexone is prescribed for patients. However, if the patient has some history of opiate and methadone abuse, this medication will not be prescribed as it can induce opioid withdrawal symptoms.
There will be a high risk for the patient to experience dehydration and loss of appetite from this addiction. In order to counter this, the patient is given intravenous fluids.
Aside from these medications, behavioral therapies are incorporated into any treatment program to hasten recovery and reinforce positive behavior. The three common therapies given to patients with this condition are Cognitive behavioral therapy, Group Counseling, and Reward System.
