Synthetic Cannabinoids (Spice Drugs, K2, JWH-018, JWH-073, CP 47497, HU-210)

Description

Synthetic cannabinoids are designer drugs made to bind to the THC receptor in the brain, thereby producing effects similar to marijuana. The drugs are often sprayed onto herbal mixtures that are smoked. They are marketed as a "legal" high but many countries are making the drugs illegal.

Street names: Spice, K2, Red X Dawn

Drugs include: JWH-018, JWH-073, CP 47497, HU-210, JWH-250, JWH-398 (JWH refers to John Huffman who first synthesized them)

Desired effects include:

(1) euphoria

Undesireable effects include:

(1) depression

(2) psychosis or paranoia

(3) agitation

(4) addiction with a withdrawal syndrome on discontinuation

(5) tachycardia

(6) severe hypertension

The drugs and its metabolites can be identified in the laboratory. Many of these agents are incapable of producing THC metabolites such as 11-nor-9-carboxy-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. The exception is HU-210, which is a controlled substance and a derivative of THC.

To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.

Description

Specialty

ICD-10