Synthetic cannabis
spice, kronic, AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA
Synthetic cannabinoids are chemical compounds which mimic the effects of THC.
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the chemical compound in cannabis.
Effects
Cannabis and cannabis-like drugs can affect you physical and mental well being. Small doses may impair your memory and thinking. Heavy or regular use may cause:
- problems with memory
- confusion
- anxiety
- depression
- hallucinations
- paranoia
- psychoses
Cannabis use has also been linked to the following mental health conditions:
- depression and anxiety
- psychotic episodes
- schizophrenia
Because substances that contain the synthetic cannabinoids are manufactured, there can be considerable unpredictability, both in terms of substances present and quantity. Users cannot therefore assume the same effects from the same product the next time they use it. Thus, there is potential for overdose should a person use a particularly strong batch or a synthetic cannabinoid with particularly high potency.
Source: NSW Health
How common is the use of synthetic cannabis?
The 2019 National Drug Strategy Household Survey found that 2.6% of Australians aged 14 and over have ever tried synthetic cannabinoids (down from 2.8% in the 2016 survey) while 0.2% used synthetic cannabinoids in the year preceding the survey (0.3% in 2016).
Useful links
- Synthetic cannabis - Alcohol and Drug Foundation
- Fast facts on synthetic cannabinoids - NCPIC, available via NSW Health