Fake weed has potential for real problems

ANN ARBOR, Mich., -- Fake marijuana is causing real highs in smokers of a new substance called K2.  This herb is making its way into the hands of smokers throughout Ann Arbor.

With looks similar to that of marijuana, the effects are almost identical. Unfortunately, the smokers of this herb are putting themselves at a risk that even scientist aren't sure of yet.

The effects of K2 are highly comparable to marijuana, but potentially more dangerous. According to MSNBC and the Associated Press, K2 is produced in both China and Korea. It is a combination of different herbs and spices, then sprayed with chemicals. The chemical, known as JWH-018, is a synthetic compound chemically similar to THC, which is the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. K2 can be smoked the same way marijuana can, and the effects can last just as long as those caused by THC.

"I heard about it and had my doubts," said Paul Drain, 24, of Ann Arbor.  "I figured there was no way it could be legal."

This synthetic substance can be found online, as well as in the store. There are many different websites available for the purchase of K2, as well as a variety of smoke shops in the Ann Arbor area. 

"It's in a lot of different smoke shops around here," Drain said.  "It's usually within walking distance and it's easy for people to access."

According to CNN, smoking K2 causes side effects similar to marijuana increasing heart rate, causing paranoia, hallucinations and psychotic episodes. The high they get from smoking a small amount of K2, is equivalent to smoking a large amount of marijuana. And since K2 is made up of assorted chemicals, the substance is not easy to regulate.

However, K2 is not a new substance. It began appearing in 2004 online and in head shops. A study done in 2008 by Volker Auwarter, ScD., tested 7 of the products and found they contained different levels of JWH-918.

"I think it's all a big joke," said Eastern Michigan University student, Kallen Molnar, 23.  "It makes you high, its legal and you can buy it at the smoke shop like its no big deal."

K2 can even be purchased online by a person of any age. There are websites where K2 is available and is described as an herb or botanical. Others give examples of feelings and smells created by K2.

K2 is in the same price range as marijuana, selling between $25 and $50 per bag. The only difference so far, is that it's legal.

"We check to make sure people have identification," said a local smoke shop owner. "You have to be at least 18, but a lot of places will sell it to anyone who has money."

According to WebMd.comhttp://www.webmd.com/mental-health/news/k2-spice-gold-herbal-incense-faq?page=3, the synthetic cannabinoid in K2 ignites the cannabinoid receptors found in many different cells in the body, and more than 100 different synthetic cannabinoids have been created.

Billy Mayer, a University of Michigan student, is afraid that this could have dangerous effects in the long run.

"I have smoked a few different kinds and they were all totally different," Mayer said. "I have tried blonde, blue and summit, and honestly, I'm not sure I'll do it again.  Especially after all of this bad stuff I'm hearing about it lately."

Is this legal? Right now, yes. Because the synthetic cannabinoids found in the products are new, they are unable to be tested. Today, according to WebMD.com, the only way to test for K2 is by blood sample, which must be performed before the effects wear off.

"You can get real high from it," Mayer said. "I'm not saying its good for you or encouraging people to use it, but if marijuana is legal, then this should definitely be too."