Synthetic marijuana (more accurately called synthetic cannabinoids) refers to a large and constantly changing group of lab‑made chemicals that are sprayed on dried plant material or dissolved in liquid to be vaped.(Source) These chemicals are designed to act on the same brain receptors as delta‑9‑tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, but they often bind more strongly and in different ways, which can lead to extreme and dangerous effects.(Source)

Unlike regulated medications, synthetic cannabinoid products are not standardized. The chemical formulas, doses, and contaminants can vary widely between brands, batches, and even within the same package.(Source) This lack of consistency is one of the main reasons synthetic marijuana is so risky.

Common street or brand names include:

• K2
• Spice
• Black Mamba
• Scooby Snax
• Cloud 9
• Mr. Nice Guy

Packages are often labeled as “incense,” “potpourri,” or “not for human consumption” to avoid regulation, even though they are clearly intended to be smoked or vaped.(Source)

Because the chemicals change so frequently to stay ahead of drug laws, users can never be sure what they are actually taking or how strong it is.