Health Officials Issue Warning on Synthetic Marijuana Crisis

Rockland County Executive Ed Day and County Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert issued an alert this morning because the New York State Department of Health is warning New Yorkers not to use synthetic cannabinoids after a large increase in emergency department visits across the state.

More than 160 people sickened by synthetic marijuana have visited health care facilities since April 8.

The reported cases were mostly in New York City and Syracuse; no cases have been reported in Rockland County.

“Fortunately, we have not seen an increase in emergency department visits in Rockland due to the use of synthetic marijuana. However, we warn residents not to use these dangerous and illegal drugs,” said Dr. Ruppert.

Though believed by many to be safe, these products are actually shredded plant material – that no one really knows the origin of – that have been sprayed with harmful chemicals. If smoked, it is these chemicals that can create extremely harmful effects including anxiety, confusion, sedation, paranoia, and hallucinations. Other reported effects include rapid heart rate, vomiting, seizures and fainting.

SEE: Synthetic Marijuana Can be a Parent’s Nightmare Come True

Synthetic cannabinoids are marketed as “legal” and are sold as incense, herbal mixtures or potpourri, online and in convenience or smoke shops, and often carry a “not for human consumption” label in order to disguise the true purpose of the substance.

Since the exact compounds contained in synthetic cannabinoid products change frequently, risks and adverse consequences are unpredictable. No antidote is presently available for synthetic cannabinoid intoxication.

Cannabinoids can cause kidney failure, heart attacks and death. Heavy users may also experience withdrawal and craving.

Synthetic cannabinoids are often referred to by different names, including: K2, Spice, Blonde, Summit, Standard, Blaze, Red Dawn X, Citron, Green Giant, Smacked, Wicked X, AK-47, synthetic marijuana, or legal marijuana. Additional names from some recent reported cases include: Geeked up, Ninja, Caution, Red Giant or Keisha Kole.

The Rockland County Drug Task Force, under the County District Attorney’s office, encourages you to contact their Confidential Tip Line if you see these products for sale in your local convenience store or smoke shop. Call 845-732-1000 and press Option 2 to leave a message.

If you or someone you know has taken synthetic marijuana and is experiencing symptoms, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention at your nearest emergency department.

PHOTO: Patch files