Search
People have worked for years to find ways to get the same high from marijuana without failing a drug test. They used urban legends and DIY techniques to spoof the results to get a false negative. However, when it was discovered that most of these techniques did not work, some took the extra step to try and find ways to create a drug that would simulate the same effects without coming up in a tox screen. This is what led to the creation of synthetic marijuana.
While some believed that synthetic marijuana would be the answer to their quest to pass a drug test, the end result was far from it. Commonly referred to as K2 or Spice, synthetic marijuana’s chemical makeup has caused disastrous and dangerous side effects in recreational users. If you believe someone you love is undergoing synthetic marijuana detox and withdrawal, there are some noticeable symptoms to keep an eye out for.
What Is Synthetic Marijuana?
Before you can identify the symptoms of synthetic marijuana withdrawal, you need to have an idea of what chemical compounds comprise its makeup. This particular designer drug utilizes dried plant material coated with lab-produced psychoactive chemicals to mimic the feeling of a weed-induced high.
These synthetic cannabinoids are widely unregulated, so in most cases, no two strands of K2 are truly the same. This can lead to unpredictable side effects ranging from mild to deadly. Even with these possible consequences hanging over their head, recreational users can quickly become addicted and overly dependent on it to survive.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Synthetic Marijuana Substance Abuse?
After becoming addicted and dependent on K2, most users showcase similar signs that their loved ones can notice. Some of the most common side effects of synthetic marijuana addiction include:
- Failing to Meet Commitments
- Social Withdrawal
- Decline in Work Performance
- Physical Aggression
How to Spot Synthetic Marijuana Withdrawal
Whether in an organized detox program or trying to beat their addiction on their own, people going through withdrawal can show some telltale signs. If you notice someone you love experiencing any of these symptoms, reach out as soon as possible so they can get the help they need.
Problems Sleeping
According to a study published in Psychopharmacology in 2021, irregular sleep patterns were one of the most commonly reported symptoms of synthetic marijuana withdrawal. Compared to natural cannabis, the synthetic variety has more physical withdrawal symptoms due to its interaction with our body’s chemical receptors. Instances where the person has insomnia can lead to more pronounced withdrawal.
Heart Palpitations
When you’re looking at someone you love, feeling your heart race when you see them is a good thing. Heart palpitations as a result of synthetic marijuana withdrawal are a different feeling. Sometimes accompanied by trouble breathing and chest pain, issues with your heart are unfortunately one of the leading complications from this type of substance abuse.
Nausea and Vomiting
While nausea and vomiting are also associated with natural marijuana withdrawal, it’s more prominent with the synthetic variety. These effects get magnified and can last for several days, with people resorting to taking another hit to make the symptoms stop.
Silver Pines Treatment Center Can Help
Now that you know what the symptoms of synthetic marijuana withdrawal look like, you can get your loved ones help when they need it. Finding a treatment center for you or a loved one undergoing detox can often mean the difference between success and relapse. Silver Pines Treatment Center has made it our mission to help those in need combat their substance abuse disorders and receive the treatment they need.
If you or someone you love are dealing with addiction and want to learn more about your treatment options, our team of specialists can help. Give us a call at 267.719.8689 to get the assistance you need today.
