Overview
Synthetic cannabinoid poisoning occurs when individuals experience adverse health effects after using man-made chemicals that mimic THC, the active component in cannabis. These substances, often sold under names like “K2” or “Spice,” are far more potent and unpredictable than natural cannabis. In Korea, synthetic cannabinoid use is illegal and increasingly associated with severe poisoning cases, especially among youth and foreign residents. Prompt medical attention and public awareness are critical.
What is Synthetic Cannabinoid Poisoning?
Synthetic cannabinoid poisoning is a toxic reaction to artificial cannabinoids—lab-made chemicals sprayed onto plant material or sold in liquid form for vaping. These substances bind strongly to cannabinoid receptors in the brain but often have dangerous and unpredictable effects. Unlike marijuana, synthetic cannabinoids are not derived from the cannabis plant, and their composition varies widely, increasing the risk of toxicity.
Synthetic cannabinoids are often labeled as:
- “Herbal incense”
- “Legal highs”
- “Not for human consumption”
Despite these labels, they are used recreationally and can cause severe poisoning.
Symptoms
The symptoms of synthetic cannabinoid poisoning vary, but may include:
- Confusion or hallucinations
- Extreme anxiety, paranoia, or aggression
- Seizures
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Vomiting or nausea
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Kidney failure
- Loss of consciousness or coma
Severe cases can result in death.
Causes
Synthetic cannabinoid poisoning is caused by:
- Ingestion, inhalation, or vaping of products containing synthetic cannabinoids
- Unregulated production leading to variable doses and unknown additives
- Contamination with other toxic chemicals
These substances are often marketed as safe or legal alternatives to cannabis, but in reality, their potency and risk profile are much higher.
Risk Factors
- Use of unregulated or street-purchased herbal products
- Adolescents and young adults experimenting with drugs
- Individuals attempting to avoid detection in drug screenings
- Previous substance abuse history
- Lack of public knowledge about the risks of synthetic cannabinoids
Complications
- Cardiovascular issues (e.g., heart attack, arrhythmia)
- Renal failure
- Seizures and brain damage
- Severe psychiatric symptoms (psychosis, suicidal behavior)
- Death in extreme cases
- Long-term cognitive and emotional effects
Prevention
- Public education on the dangers of synthetic cannabinoids
- Strong law enforcement to prevent distribution and sale
- Parental supervision and open communication with teens
- Drug counseling and mental health support for at-risk individuals
- Avoiding experimentation with unknown or unregulated drugs
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea has a zero-tolerance policy toward synthetic drug use, including synthetic cannabinoids. However, advanced emergency medicine and toxicology departments are equipped to handle poisoning cases with urgency and precision.
Emergency Treatment
- Supportive care: Stabilization of vital signs, hydration, oxygen therapy
- Sedation: For agitation or seizures (using benzodiazepines)
- Cardiac monitoring: For arrhythmia or cardiac arrest
- Kidney support: In case of renal involvement
- Activated charcoal: Sometimes used to limit absorption
Hospitalization
- Patients may require ICU care if symptoms are severe.
- Psychiatric evaluation is often recommended following recovery.
Mental Health and Addiction Counseling
- Detox and drug rehab services are available at:
- National Center for Mental Health (NCMH)
- Seoul Metropolitan Dongbu Hospital
- Catholic University Addiction Recovery Centers
- Confidential therapy and support groups are available for recovery.
Legal Context in Korea
- Possession, use, or distribution of synthetic cannabinoids is illegal.
- Foreigners caught using synthetic cannabinoids may face deportation.
- Korean authorities conduct random drug tests in schools and entertainment venues.
