We’ve been keeping our eye on synthetic marijuana over the past year or so as it continues to build in popularity. From reading articles, attending conferences, and listening to information ‘on the street’ there seems to be a possibility that K2, K3, K4 and Spice usage could lead to addicts seeking care at medical detox facilities.
It seems the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has been keeping an eye on this as well. As a matter of fact, just this past week the DEA cracked down and placed some or the chemicals (JWH-018, JWH-073, JWH-200, CP-47,497, cannabicyclohexanol) present in synthetic marijuana in the same category as heroin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). There are variations of the ingredients in each of the products, and the fact these have been marketed as ‘incense’ and an ‘herbal blend,’ makes it even more of a challenge to enforce by the DEA. Ultimately each sample that is used will need to be tested for its chemical contents.
The findings came about last year when NMS Labs released their comprehensive drug ID test for these chemical compounds. They also were equally concerned with many other compounds being used as replacements. These other chemicals have not yet been scheduled. NMS came has conclusive evidence that the drugs present in K2 and other herbal products have effects similar to marijuana. However, they are undetectable in routine drug tests. In essence this will make it even more difficult for law enforcement, military, transportation safety agencies and probation and parole program officers to perform their duties to uphold the law.
Where this will head is anyone’s guess, but it is apparent to us that people will become addicted to these products, placing them in a position to need a medical detox.