Fake substance has potential to cause real problems

Fake marijuana is causing real high's in smokers of a new substance called K2.

This new, un-testable, substance is making its way quickly into the hands of smokers throughout Ann Arbor. Looking similar to marijuana, the effects are almost identical. Unfortunately, the smokers of this herb are putting themselves at a risk that even scientists aren't aware 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've smoked marijuana and figured there was no way it could be comparable."

Users of this substance are not yet aware of the dangers associated with smoking a chemically enhanced substance like this. Since K2 is sold legally at many smoke shops around town, is sold as incense, children as young as 10 have access to it.

INTERVIEW SCHEDULED FOR 2 SMOKE SHOPS IN ANN ARBOR/YPSILANTI AREA.
-Stairway to Heaven - 304 South State Street
-Smokers Express‎- 1799 East Washtenaw Avenue
(Here, I will add comments from what the owners and employees of the stores think about K2. How often do they sell it, how much do they sell it for, how old do you have to be to buy it, and any thoughts they have about the substance)

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 this bad stuff I'm hearing about it lately."

According to CNN, smoking K2 can cause an increase in heart rate, 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.

"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 illegal, then this should definitely be too."