Synthetic drugs are chemically engineered substances designed to mimic the effects of natural drugs. Common examples include synthetic cannabinoids (K2, Spice), synthetic cathinones (bath salts), and illicitly manufactured fentanyl. They are particularly dangerous because their compositions are unpredictable and constantly changing.
Users cannot know exactly what chemicals they are consuming or in what concentration. Synthetic cannabinoids can be 100 times more potent than natural THC. Illicit fentanyl, often mixed into other drugs without the user’s knowledge, is the leading cause of overdose deaths in the United States.
Synthetic drugs can cause rapid heart rate, vomiting, agitation, confusion, hallucinations, paranoia, seizures, kidney failure, and death. Emergency rooms regularly see clusters of overdoses from these substances.
If you or someone you know is using synthetic drugs, seek help immediately. These substances are not “safer” alternatives. At ORTC, we treat individuals affected by all types of substance use and provide the medical monitoring needed to safely begin recovery.
If you or someone you love is struggling, ORTC offers confidential, compassionate treatment. Call us today.