Should We Ban Synthetic Marijuana
In a story earlier in February, we discussed the potential harms of synthetic marijuana and legal buds. This synthetic marijuana is typically marketed as incense or potpourri, but are commonly consumed by smoking or ingestion. These products that mimic marijuana have been shown to cause hallucinations and seizures in some instances. There have been a number of calls for these products not be sold on store shelves.
Since the synthetic marijuana products are common amongst high school students and teenagers, there has been growing concern over its sale. State Senators in New York, have been outraged by the sale of the product and the lack of awareness surrounding synthetic marijuana.
Joined by Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice and Jeffrey Reynolds, executive director of the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Schumer said the substances are available in stores on Long Island and are popular with high school and college students.
Reynolds said synthetic marijuana can’t be detected in typical blood tests and drug screens.
Rice said many buying the substances don’t realize the health dangers — seizures, hallucinations, high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, panic attacks and erratic behavior. “It’s important for parents to be aware of the dangers posed by synthetic marijuana,” she said.
About Ann Flannigan
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