Synthetic Cannabis Overdose and Withdrawal in a Young Adult: A Case-Report and Commentary on Regulation

Abstract

Background/Introduction: Marijuana has been used for its psychotropic effects including enhanced relaxation and perceptual alterations. However, the use of synthetic cannabis (marijuana) leads to more frequent and drastic side effects than the typical use of regular marijuana, owing to the fact that synthetic cannabis has a shorter duration and an earlier peak of action. Despite all the potential adverse health effects associated with synthetic cannabis use, current health policies on synthetic cannabis are very limited. It is believed that the popularity of synthetic cannabis has increased, due to its easy accessibility in the US and the lack of detection in typical urine drug screens for Tetrahydrocannabinol derivatives (THC). Case Report: One case is presented of a young adult patient, with histories of recurrent synthetic cannabis and recreational cannabis use, who had developed drastic physiological and psychiatric symptoms, including the development of acute-onset psychosis. Conclusion/Discussion: This case, as many others nationwide, exemplifies the impact of synthetic cannabinoid use and abuse in adolescents. Side effects and adverse health consequences of synthetic cannabinoid use warrants stricter regulations and policies in order to decrease psychiatric hospital admissions and associated healthcare costs.

Perilaku Beresiko Dan Faktor Pelindung Penggunaan Tembakau Sintetis Pada Komunitas Cj

“…Meskipun memiliki efek yang serupa tidak terdapat bagian kimia dari ganja di dalam bahan pembuatannya (Brents & Prather, 2014). Penggunaan tembakau sintetis memiliki durasi efek yang lebih cepat jika dibandingkan dengan penggunaan ganja (Samaan et al, 2016). Penggunaan tembakau sintetis menurut partisipan memberikan efek depresan dan halusinasi kepada penggunanya.…”