Of increasing alarm is the emergence of new synthetic drugs known as Spice, K2, Genie and Bath Salts.  Other synthetic drugs, such as 2CE, 2CB, 2CT2, and mephedrone are being abused, as well, and produce an effect similar to LSD, MDMA and amphetamines.  These new drugs are created in laboratories to produce effects similar to more traditional drugs but remain different enough on a molecular level to escape detection in urine tests.

Spice is attractive to teens and young adults who may think it is safe because they are sold as herbal incense and are often marketed as incense or potpourri which allows it to slip by federal Food and Drug Administration regulations.  Spice however can be exponentially more powerful than marijuana or other cannabinoids and provides a more intense high for a shorter period of time.  The “not for human consumption” label makes it legal, and these drugs can often be bought at smoke shops, swap marts and convenience stores.  At $25 for 3 ounces, for sale on mainstream internet sites, it is easily accessible.

With side-effects including seizures, hallucinations, tremors, blackouts, and cardiac arrest, combined with a number of reports showing the use of these drugs has caused hospitalization and even death in our State, State Representative Darryl Rouson, D-St. Petersburg, and Rep. Janet Adkins, R-Fernandina Beach, co-sponsored a bill outlawing certain synthetic cannabinoids.  Recognizing a special danger to youth, Representative Rouson points out, This substance is sold across the counter at gas stations across the state in brightly-colored packages, is deceptively labeled as incense, and is aimed at our children.  By outlawing this drug, I concede that we cannot legislate our way out of every scourge of society but it will serve as a deterrent to purveyors and users and it will save lives.

If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to Spice or another synthetic drug, contact us today at 1-855-322-2600. DACCOs adolescent and adult treatment programs and state-of-the-art onsite laboratory (which provides testing that can detect alcohol, traditional, and synthetic drug use) will provide the support you or your loved one needs to get back on track.