Growing in popularity, synthetic cannabinoids, commonly known as K2 or Spice, are a potent substance that affects the same area of the brain as cannabis but is more dangerous. As K2 rises in popularity, mainly among young adults, this synthetic marijuana can be misused and abused and lead to addiction.
If you or someone you care for is struggling with synthetic cannabinoid (K2) addiction, Tree House Recovery is here to help. Speak to one of our team members to find out which level of care is best for you and your insurance coverage, and answer any questions you have about your path toward recovery.
What Is K2/Spice?
Because of its legality and widespread use, alcohol’s biggest danger is the false sense of security that comes with using it. The most recent research says that one in eight people struggles with alcohol addiction.
What’s more is that alcohol can be addictive to anyone, not just people with alcohol use disorder. With enough consumption, anyone can develop a physical dependence on alcohol, meaning that they would experience withdrawal symptoms if they stopped drinking.
What Is Synthetic Marijuana?
Synthetic cannabinoids, often referred to as K2, Spice, Green Giant, Bizarro, Greeked Up, Smacked, and AK-471, are chemical substances designed to mimic the effects of cannabis. K2 is part of a class of drugs known as new psychoactive substances (NPS).
K2 works by affecting the cannabinoid receptors in the brain, often with much greater potency than THC in cannabis. As a result, K2 creates more intense physical and mental effects.
K2 has become a popular alternative to cannabis, especially among young adults, due to its legal status and easy accessibility.2 Some people use K2 to self-medicate mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Unfortunately, synthetic marijuana is highly addictive and can lead to dependence and abuse.
Although many chemicals commonly found in K2 are now illegal, individuals continuously alter the compound to bypass regulations. This makes K2 unpredictable and increases the risk of overdose.
Understanding K2 Addiction
K2 was initially marketed as a safe alternative to marijuana. However, its effects on the brain are often more intense and unpredictable, leading to a higher potential for addiction.
Even a single use of K2 can cause unpleasant side effects, including psychosis and other harmful physical effects. Regular users can develop a dependency, using K2 to avoid withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
The lack of regulation and the constant alteration of K2’s chemical makeup make it easy for individuals to access and become addicted to this substance.
K2 Side Effects and Overdose
What Are the Side Effects of K2?
The chemical composition of K2 can vary from one package to another, making the effects of the drug highly unpredictable.
Some of the common health effects associated with K2 use include2:
- Increased repetitive or compulsive behaviors
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Vomiting
- Fainting
- Reduced blood supply to the heart
- Seizures
Because the effects of K2 wear off more quickly than cannabis, users may take more of the substance in a short period. This increases the risk of dependency and addiction.
K2 Overdose and Death
While rare, overdose and death have been linked to K2 misuse. Due to its increased potency compared to cannabis, thousands of people have visited the emergency room after experiencing severe side effects, including overdose.
Signs of a K2 overdose include1:
- Elevated blood pressure
- Kidney damage
- Seizures
If you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing an overdose, seek medical help immediately.
K2 Addiction Treatment in North Carolina
If you or someone you know is struggling with K2 addiction, help is available. Several levels of care can help individuals overcome synthetic marijuana addiction and lead a healthier, sober life.
Addiction rehab options will vary depending on a person’s needs and the facility’s offerings, but they often include a variety of psychotherapies. Some standard treatment options for K2 addiction include:
Inpatient Treatment (IP)
This intensive level of care is ideal for people experiencing severe synthetic marijuana addiction. Inpatient treatment can help monitor and work through the withdrawal symptoms of synthetic marijuana use.
These programs provide 24/7 support in a well-structured and safe environment where the client will reside for a set amount of time.
Partial Hospitalization Treatment (PHP)
Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) provide structured, supportive environments for people undergoing treatment for alcohol and drug addiction. These programs incorporate treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exercise therapy to help restore the mind, body, and social well-being, which may have been affected by synthetic cannabinoids.
Unlike inpatient treatment, PHP clients return home after each session. The duration of therapy varies by facility.
Outpatient Treatment (OP)
Outpatient treatment is a less intensive level of care that enables clients to continue working or attending classes while developing essential life skills for recovery.
Some facilities, like Tree House Recovery, offer evening intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), providing flexibility for individuals in addiction recovery.
Aftercare and Alum Programs
Addiction recovery is a lifelong journey, but you don’t have to walk it alone.
Aftercare and alums programs provide ongoing support after you’ve built a foundation for sobriety and recovery. These personalized programs help you maintain a healthy lifestyle by offering community and resources when you need them most.
Find K2 Addiction Treatment Near Me
If you or a loved one is struggling with K2 addiction, help is just a phone call away. Tree House Recovery can help you find the best treatment options based on your unique needs. Our team is here to answer any questions about recovery and insurance coverage.
Take the first step toward recovery today—call (910) 812-1728 to speak with one of our experienced team members.
Sources
Synthetic cannabinoids (synthetic marijuana, spice, K2). Drugs.com. (n.d.). https://www.drugs.com/illicit/synthetic-marijuana.html
- Hu, X., Primack, B. A., Barnett, T. E., & Cook, R. L. (2011). College students and use of K2: an emerging drug of abuse in young persons. Substance abuse treatment, prevention, and policy, 6, 16. https://doi.org/10.1186/1747-597X-6-16
K2 – synthetic cannabinoids. K2 – NYC Health. (n.d.). https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/k2.page