Dozens of hospitalizations in New Haven, Conn., attributed to synthetic cannabinoid use has brought renewed attention to a product experts have already deemed a public health hazard.
At least 76 people overdosed on the drug, known as K2 or spice (or sometimes “fake weed”), last week, NBC Connecticut reported. Some patients were unconscious while others were vomiting or lethargic. Upon their release, some people overdosed again. So far, no fatalities have been reported among those recently hospitalized. Earlier this year, however, at least four deaths were connected to the drug after a batch was discovered to contain rat poison.
Editor's Pick: Explore the complex science behind a recent and tragic event involving people who overdosed on an unregulated and poorly understood drug.
https://t.co/yF20VwKBp2— The Scientist (@TheScientistLLC) August 19, 2018
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned of the dangers of K2 numerous times.
“Synthetic cannabinoids are not one drug,” the CDC previously reported. “Hundreds of different synthetic cannabinoid chemicals are manufactured and sold. New ones with unknown health risks become available each year. Synthetic cannabinoids are popular because users often believe they are legal and relatively safe.”
Deputy Director Carroll visits Connecticut in wake of over 76 overdoses in 48 hrs from a powerful synthetic cannabinoid called K2. @GovMalloyOffice, @SenBlumenthal, @MayorHarp, #HIDTA reps and local law enforcement met to discuss solutions to combat the devastating drug outbreak. pic.twitter.com/rwVsTxT4ba
— ONDCP (@ONDCP45) August 20, 2018
The drug can impact brain function, according to the CDC, leading to hallucinations, psychosis, violent behavior, seizures, and other side effects. It can also cause breathing problems, heart attack, elevated blood pressure, kidney failure, stroke, and muscle damage. Long-term effects remain unknown, but withdrawal symptoms have been reported, including headache, vomiting, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. Frequent users of the drug who stop may experience breathing problems, chest pain, increased heart rate, palpitations, and seizures.
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