Synthetic cannabinoids are man-made drugs.

They were originally designed to mimic the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as THC, which is the active ingredient in cannabis that gives the feeling of being stoned.

Spice is a nickname for a substance containing one or more synthetic cannabinoids.

Synthetic cannabinoids can be very strong and unpredictable.

If someone has breathing difficulties, seizures, chest pain, becomes unconscious, or you are seriously worried about them, call 999 immediately.

What synthetic cannabinoids may look like

Synthetic cannabinoids may be powdered chemicals, dissolved and sprayed onto paper or dried plant material.

It is becoming more common to find them as a liquid, often on paper dipped in the fluid.

Risks of taking Spice

Synthetic cannabinoids are often much stronger than natural cannabis, and many people describe quite different effects.

Due to their potency, many people experience unpleasant and unpredictable side effects such as:

  • inability to move
  • breathing difficulties
  • heart palpitations
  • seizures
  • extreme anxiety

Using synthetic cannabinoids with alcohol and other drugs, including prescribed medicines, increases the risk of unwanted and harmful effects.

Withdrawal effects

People who use synthetic cannabinoids regularly over a long time commonly have withdrawal symptoms.

Symptoms reported include:

  • headaches
  • anxiety
  • low mood
  • difficulty concentrating
  • irritability
  • restlessness
  • cravings

Inhaling any substance into your lungs can cause irritation to the delicate tissue. This includes synthetic cannabinoid products.

Reducing the risks

Start low and go slow. Potency can be highly variable, so start with a very small amount, a match-head size or less.

If using more, increase amounts very cautiously and give time, at least an hour, for previous amounts to wear off.

Avoid mixing with alcohol and other drugs, including prescribed medication, as this may increase the risk of heart problems.

Mental wellbeing

Synthetic cannabinoids may make feelings of anxiety or paranoia worse.

Avoid using synthetic cannabinoids if you are prone to anxiety or have existing mental health problems.

If you do use them, only use them in an environment where you feel safe and with people you trust.

Smoking synthetic cannabinoids

If you are smoking synthetic cannabinoids, avoid smoking them neat. Dried herbs can be used as an alternative to tobacco.

Avoid holding smoke in your lungs or breathing in too deeply. Take short puffs and be very cautious about smoking in pipes, vaporisers or bongs.

Pipes, vaporisers and bongs make it harder to regulate intake, and it is easy to take too much.

Water pipes cause you to inhale more deeply, which increases lung damage.

Avoid sharing joints, vapes, pipes and bongs with others.