K2, Spice, Buddha Blue… What’s behind synthetic cannabis?
More powerful and more unpredictable than natural cannabis, products like K2, Spice or Buddha Blue, derived from synthetic cannabis, are spreading massively. Some of these compounds can be up to 100 times more potent than natural THC on brain receptors (EMCDDA). Often unknown to the general public, they can cause serious effects on the brain and body. In what forms are they circulating? Why are they dangerous? This article helps you see things more clearly
What exactly are we talking about?
The synthetic cannabinoids are chemical substances created in the laboratory to mimic the effects of Δ9-THC, the main psychoactive compound of cannabisUnlike natural THC extracted from the cannabis plant, these molecules are without any quality control.
Their structure is artificial, which allows them to act more powerfully on the cannabinoid receptors in the brain.
Their marketing plays on confusion, with attractive packaging and marketing names that mask their real danger.
In what forms do we find them?
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) can be incorporated into many products, sometimes sold under deceptive guises. Here are the most commonly encountered forms:
- Dried plants for smoking : CS are sprayed on herbs to mimic the appearance of cannabis
- E-liquids for electronic cigarettes : difficult to identify, they may contain synthetic molecules without indicating it
- Products to be ingested : candies, gummies, resins, capsules or herbal teas
- Contaminated CBD flowers or oils : sometimes enriched with undeclared substances
- Incense or “aromas” : sold legally online or in stores under the guise of decorative or perfume use, circumventing legislation
Powerful effects… and very dangerous
The synthetic cannabinoids bind very strongly to the brain's receptors, causing much more intense reactions. intense than those of natural cannabis. This difference amplifies the effects and makes them much more violent and unpredictable.
Consequences on the brain
- Impaired judgment, cognitive and memory disorders
- Unstable mood
Panic attacks, hallucinations, acute delirium - Psychotic episodes that may be long-lasting
- Rapid addiction, with an intense withdrawal effect even after occasional use
Effects on the body
- Psychological disorders
- Food cravings, dry mouth
- Headache
- Tachycardia, nausea, hypertension, intense sweating
- Respiratory problems, chest pain
- Comas, cardiac arrests and even deaths
the Natural CBD, on the other hand, is not psychoactive and instead acts as a regulator. But the line is blurred today: according to theANSM, some CBD products on the market contain unauthorized substances, exposing consumers to a risk of involuntary poisoning.
How long do the effects last?
The duration of the effects of synthetic cannabis varies greatly. It depends on the molecule, the dose, the method of consumption, and also individual sensitivity.
In general, the effects may appear in a few minutes (especially by inhalation) and last from 30 minutes to several hours. But in some cases, persistent disorders (anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, insomnia) may be prolonged several days after consumption.
Unlike natural cannabis, there is no no regularity or predictability : two doses of the same product can cause very different reactions, even in the same person.
3 figures to remember about synthetic cannabis
Why it is a public health issue
Synthetic cannabis is difficult to spot, often sold under misleading names or hidden in mislabeled products, such as certain e-liquids or CBD flowers. Consuming it poses serious health risks, even in small amounts.
Its danger also stems from its ease of access, particularly online, and the ignorance surrounding it. Many still perceive it as a "soft" or "legal" version of cannabis, even though it is an unstable, uncontrolled, and much more potent substance.
The increase in poisonings shows the urgency of informing, monitoring and preventing: it is a real public health issue.
In case of suspected poisoning, it is essential to report quickly :
For a vital emergency, call him 15.
Otherwise, report the poisoning via the official portal : signalement.social‑sante.gouv.fr
A growing risk in the workplace
In business, these products pose a real danger. Their consumption can lead to impaired alertness, behavioral disorders or a endangering others, particularly in exposed professions (driving, maintenance, logistics, security, etc.).
In addition, these substances are:
difficult to spot visually (absence of odor)
undetectable by conventional tests if these are not broad spectrum
potentially legal if the molecule is not yet banned
Faced with this, employers must adapt their addiction prevention policy to new practices.
Medisur: a committed partner for health and safety at work
Pioneer in health preventionFor over 10 years, Medisur has been supporting companies in implementing concrete policies against addictive behavior. Faced with the rise of synthetic substances, we are evolving our tools and approaches to remain up to date with new challenges.
Our solutions include:
of the multi-drug screening tests – 6 classes of drugs
of the awareness workshops adapted to the realities on the ground
a educational and regulatory expertise for businesses
We help organizations reconcile prevention, performance and safety, while placing people at the heart of the process.
