Synthetic Marijuana

Synthetic marijuana, also known as Spice or K2, is a designer drug that has grown in popularity since the mid-2000s. Synthetic marijuana is composed of a blend of herbal plant matter sprayed with synthetic cannabinoids. The synthetic cannabinoids present in these products produce similar effects as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychedelic ingredient in marijuana, which is how synthetic marijuana earned its name.

Synthetic marijuana is marketed as a “safe alternative to marijuana” but is labeled “not for human consumption,” “for aromatherapy only,” and “incense.” While these labels are in place to circumvent regulation, synthetic marijuana is marketed as a “safe and legal” alternative to marijuana with the primary method of administration being inhalation via a pipe or rolled cigarette. Oral administration has been reported but is less ...