A Warning to Parents about "Synthetic Cannabis", or K2

The following message is being passed on from Save Our Society from Drugs (www.saveoursociety.org):

Several recent media reports on a synthetic, cannabis-like drug have brought K2, also known as Spice, to the forefront of drug policy discussions across our nation.

K2 is a mixture of plant products marketed and sold as incense but purchased because it is sprayed with JWH 018 and JWH-073, synthetic potent psychotropic compounds similar to cannabis.

Selling for approximately $30 a package, K2 has become so popular that retailers have a hard time keeping it on the shelves.

While the long-term effects of K2 are relatively unknown, what we do know is frightening. Information from users such as increased heart rates, elevated blood pressure and vomiting suggest that K2 is affecting the cardiovascular system and causing hallucinations and, in some cases, seizures.

Legislation to ban synthetic cannabis products passed both chambers of the Kansas legislature and awaits action from the governor, and similar legislation has been introduced in Missouri.

Availability and use of K2 is not limited to the Midwest; its popularity as a legal high has intrigued individuals across the nation, and its use among our nation's youth is growing at an alarming rate.

K2 is sold under the names Spice, Blayze II, RedBird, Mojo, Voo Doo Magic, Spice Gold, Yucatan Fire, Demon and Serenity.

While legislative efforts in some areas and research on the potential harms of K2 are underway, parents should be watchful for warning signs of use, such as agitation, pale appearance or confusion due to hallucinations.

-End Save Our Society Message-

At least one teen has been hospitalized this year in Georgia (Gwinnett County) after smoking K2.

Learn more at:
http://www.saveoursociety.org
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/03/100303092405.htm

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