Synthetic Marijuana Addiction
One of the most dangerous drugs is known as synthetic marijuana. Often referred to as K2 and spice, many people believe synthetic marijuana is a safer than THC. However, the side effects of these drugs are staggering, and it’s always possible to develop a synthetic marijuana addiction.
What is Synthetic Marijuana?
Synthetic marijuana is an herbal substance which is chemically similar to THC. THC is the main element in marijuana. Therefore, many people mistakenly believe synthetic marijuana and traditional marijuana are the same. However, this is far from the truth.
To start, marijuana is a naturally occurring plant. On the other hand, synthetic marijuana is a combination of chemicals that are similar to traditional marijuana. Overall, it’s a designer drug, not a natural plant.
Additionally, people consume synthetic marijuana in different ways. Most people smoke it, but it’s common to mix it with food or beverages as well.
Synthetic marijuana began as a research experiment to better understand this drug class. However, the discovery of a concentrated marijuana look alike has quickly found a far more dangerous purpose. Above all, it’s important to understand that synthetic marijuana can be up to 100 times more powerful than marijuana.
What are the Side Effects of Synthetic Marijuana?
Many people mistakenly believe that synthetic marijuana addiction is similar to a traditional marijuana addiction. However, while there are some similarities, the side effects of synthetic marijuana are far worse.
The most common physical symptoms of synthetic marijuana include anxiety and increased blood pressure. Many users also experience rapid heart rate, sweating, nausea, vomiting, and confusion. Rare, but potential side effects include hallucinations, kidney damage, heart attacks, and paranoia.
Additionally, the potential for addiction always exists. This can be devastating. Many people with a synthetic marijuana addiction need to use the drug several times each day. Ultimately, this leads to shorter sleep periods. Most importantly, synthetic marijuana is a very real and serious drug addiction, and substance abuse treatment is the only way to conquer it.
What Makes Synthetic Marijuana Especially Dangerous?
Synthetic marijuana addiction is clearly problematic, but the drug is even more dangerous than it might appear. This is because there’s a notion that it’s harmless, and it’s also readily available for purchase. Additionally, synthetic marijuana can contain harmful ingredients people should never consume.
Unlike marijuana, synthetic marijuana won’t show up in drug tests. This means that some people use K2 so they can pass school or work drug tests.
Another concern is the drug’s widespread availability. It’s easy to find in gas stations and shops because there’s no label about it being unfit for human consumption. Instead, some people package it as potpourri. Since there’s no regulation, synthetic marijuana may have harmful chemicals in it.
Overcoming a Synthetic Marijuana Addiction
No doubt, you can always overcome a drug addiction to synthetic marijuana. At 1st Step Behavioral Health, you’ll have access to diverse programs in order to successfully work through addiction. Break free with help from the following treatment methods:
- Dual diagnosis support
- Art and music therapy
- Emphasis on relapse prevention
- Individual, group and family therapy
- Holistic supplements to evidence-based treatment
While a synthetic marijuana addiction is always possible, so is recovery. At 1st Step Behavioral Health, you can work toward sobriety in beautiful Pompano Beach, Florida. Start living a life of health and happiness by calling (855) 425-4846 today.
Take the First Step Today
We can help you get better. Contact us today to find out which program might be right for you, or to begin the process of arranging for treatment.
