The Lure And Dangers Of Synthetic Drugs

Most people have heard of the dangers of illegal drugs, such as meth and heroin. But if the names spice, bath salts and K2 don’t mean anything to you, you may be in for a surprise. The names above are drugs making an appearance on the streets and in schools around the country.

What Are Synthetic Drugs?

Synthetic drugs are man-made chemicals that are added to herbs and shredded plant material. They are sold in order to produce a mind alternating effect or a “high”. There are different classifications of synthetic drugs. The two most common are cannabinoids and cathinones. Cannabinoids are intended to mimic the effects of marijuana while cathinones are taken to get a high similar to cocaine. Spice, bath salts and K2 are some of the common street names for synthetic drugs.

Synthetic drugs are often sold online and in tobacco shops and convenience stores. Since they are labeled not for human consumption, they had not been scrutinized by the FDA.

Since the drugs are available easily, their use has increased. According to The University of Syracuse, the use of synthetic drugs is on the rise. The drugs can often be bought cheaper than other illegal stress drugs and they are not detectable on drug tests. The combination of both those factors, along with the fact some young people think they are safe has caused an increase in use.

Because the chemicals used to make the drugs were not illegal, the drugs were sold without consequences to the shop owners. However, in recent years, as law enforcement officers became more aware of the dangers, crackdowns have started to be implemented. Various laws have gone into effect, which makes certain chemicals used in the synthetic drugs illegal. However, synthetic drugs still continue to be sold.

Synthetic Drug Dangers

One of the biggest problems with synthetic drugs is they are still easily bought. In the past, most of the chemicals used to make the drugs were not illegal, and the drugs were sold without consequences to the shop owners.

The fact the drugs are sold in a store gives some young people a sense of security that what they are doing will not hurt them. They may believe that since the drug can be purchased legally, it could not be dangerous. 

Additionally, young people may have a misconception that the drugs, which are often marketed as all natural, are safe. But that is far from the truth. The chemical formulations used in synthetic drugs can be many times stronger than THC, which is the component in marijuana. There have been several incidences of young people dying after only taking one hit of a synthetic drug.

The effects reported by users of cannabinoid synthetic drugs includes anxiety, altered perception, paranoia and in some cases hallucinations. Increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure can also occur. Users of cathinones may experience chest pain, extreme paranoia and violent behavior.

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Although officials have started to fight the sale of synthetic drugs, there are challenges. For instance, various laws have gone into effect, which makes certain chemicals used in synthetic drugs illegal. But that does not deter the manufacturers of the drugs. The makers of the drugs switch chemicals used in the drugs for newer formulations that are not yet known to law enforcement.

Preventing Synthetic Drug Use   

Although there has been some effort to get synthetic drugs off the street, it still continues to be a problem. Crackdowns on drugs manufacturers has just touched the surface of the issue. More work needs to be done to eliminate the availability and use of synthetic drugs.

Signs And Symptoms Of Synthetic Drug Use

One important step in decreasing the use synthetic drugs is being aware of the signs and symptoms of drug use.  Spotting drug use early can help concerned family and friends get their loved one help and prevent deadly consequences.

The chemicals used to manufacture synthetic drugs continues to change. Because different chemicals are used, and potency levels may vary, it is difficult to compile a complete list of the symptoms and signs of synthetic drugs use. But in general, there are some common symptoms including paranoia, suicidal thoughts and aggression. Less severe symptoms may include anxiety, sweating, restlessness and trouble sleeping.   

Since the drugs are relatively new, studies are not available on the long-term effects of using the drugs. But researchers do know, synthetic drugs are addictive.

The initial research also indicates that continued use of the drugs can lead to kidney failure, liver failure and long-term mental illness. How long a person has to use the drugs before these effects occur is not known. But people who used the drugs once have developed serious health problems. The bottom line is synthetic drugs are dangerous and can possibly be deadly.

What Can Be Done To Prevent Synthetic Drug Use?

The first step in preventing synthetic drugs use is being aware of the problem. For example, if you are a parent, you should be aware of the popularity of synthetic drug use among high school students.

Education is key to preventing the use of the drugs. Schools, young people and parents need to all be aware of the dangers of synthetic drug use and not bury their head in the sand. The problem will not likely go away on its own.

There needs to be a combined effort between law enforcement, parents and communities to ban synthetic drugs and crackdown on makers, dealers and users. In order to reduce the chances of your kids getting involved with synthetic drugs, consider taking some of the following precautions.

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Talk to you kids: Preventing synthetic drug use is similar to preventing any type of drug use. The difference is, kids may not be aware how dangerous the drugs are. Ask your kids what they know about synthetic drugs to introduce the subject.

Set a good example: Set an example of sobriety. Telling your kids to avoid drugs while overindulging in alcohol or other substances will send a mixed message.

Be aware of changes: Watch for changes in your child, such as depression, increased secrecy, lying and a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. 

Get to know your kids friends: Stay involved in your child’s life. Getting to know their friends is one way to stay connected.

Become involved:  Find out what you can do to help in the fight against synthetic drugs. Get involved in educational programs at schools and legislation to make the chemicals used in synthetic drugs illegal.