Synthetic Cannabis Essay Example
Synthetic Cannabis Essay Example

Synthetic Cannabis Essay Example

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  • Pages: 3 (585 words)
  • Published: January 17, 2017
  • Type: Essay
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According to the American Association of Poison Control Center (AAPCC), there has been a steady increase in the number of calls related to synthetic marijuana since 2009, with over 639 calls recorded this year. This article aims to provide information on the definition of synthetic marijuana, reasons for its use, potential side effects, and how the government has responded to it. It is crucial to have knowledge about these specifics and refrain from smoking synthetic marijuana if offered or educate others about its dangers when needed.

In the United States, synthetic marijuana, also known as K2 or Posh, is a mixture of dry leaves that have been sprayed with toxic chemicals. The purpose is to replicate the effects of THC, which is the active compound present in regular marijuana. One example of such che

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micals is HU-210, which closely resembles THC on a molecular level. However, it is considered illegal in the US because it is a controlled substance. Instead, synthetic marijuana mixtures sold as K2 or Posh contain other chemicals like CP 47, 497 and JWH-180. These chemicals have different structures compared to THC and are not classified as controlled substances.

K2, which is also known as synthetic marijuana, presents a challenge for individuals on probation who are obliged to take drug tests since it cannot be detected by standard drug tests due to its synthetic nature. However, despite its inability to show up in these tests, K2 can produce a similar or even stronger high compared to regular marijuana. It is easily accessible and affordable at smoke shops and local gas stations, with prices ranging from $11 to $85. Furthermore

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the effects of smoking K2 wear off more quickly than those of traditional marijuana, which typically lasts for several hours. Additionally, there are no age restrictions when purchasing K2.

Smoking K2 is highly dangerous due to two main reasons. Firstly, it poses a significant risk by introducing toxic chemicals into the body, as some people smoke it to achieve a more intense high. Secondly, regardless of the smoking method utilized, inhaling harmful smoke has the potential to harm the lungs and cause a severe cough. Inhaling both smoke and chemicals, as in the case of K2, exacerbates these risks further. This combination elevates heart rate, resulting in chest pains, an increased likelihood of heart attack or blood clots, and potentially sudden death from heart failure. Moreover, smoking K2 can lead to loss of consciousness which carries a substantial risk of injury—especially if it occurs while driving.

K2, also known as Spice, is thought to have an impact on the central nervous system and can cause dangerous hallucinations and seizures. Furthermore, prolonged use of K2 can lead to significant kidney damage. This raises the question of why a substance with such severe health risks is permitted while a natural plant is not. K2 is marketed as "herbal incense" and not intended for human consumption, making it legal to sell. However, both K2 and Spice have recently been classified as Schedule 1 controlled substances by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for one year.

The DEA will investigate the compounds in K2 to decide on permanent control measures. The monthly increase in teenagers/kids being sent to the ER due to smoking these substances is alarming.

The adverse effects of smoking them are both unpredictable and dreadful. Smoking K2 for drug test evasion or temporary euphoria, while risking a heart attack, is not advisable. If you are aware of someone using synthetic marijuana, it is crucial to intervene before it becomes too late.

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