Tuesday, 11 August 2015

The Increased Use Of Synthetic Marijuana Is Becoming An Alarming Public Health Risk

by Jaime Williams
New York State has reported an increased use of synthetic marijuana whose monies the Federal drug enforcement agents say that it has found its way into Middle East countries. The discovery came through during a two-year nationwide offensive against the drug.

Apparently, the consumption of this drug is more prevalent among the homeless men. One of the victims a 47-year-old, who only identified himself as JC has explained that he has used plenty of drugs in his life. Hence, synthetic marijuana doesn’t last as long. However, even though the chemicals used to make it remain unknown, its effects are supposed to imitate those of real pot.

With the continued increase of the city’s homeless population, New York City health officials went ahead to issue warning over the use of synthetic Marijuana. Reports have it that it has seen 160 people end up in hospitals in a span of one week. Many people have continued to fall victims to synthetic marijuana according to New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker.

NYPD Commissioner William Bratton has outlined some dangers of synthetic marijuana, commonly referred to as “weaponized marijuana”. Bratton said that it can result in “excited delirium syndrome” that exhibits itself through extreme aggression and violent behavior. Other symptoms include renal failure, tremors, seizures, and the worse of it all is that it causes life-threatening conditions the likes of a rapid heartbeat.

Because it has become such an appeal to young adults and children, Drug Enforcement Administration has labeled the whole thing as a growing public health issue. These sentiments were echoed by Governor Cuomo, who is optimistic that the passage of emergency Health Department regulations will play a significant role in fighting the trade of synthetic cannabinoids.

Zucker says that the new regulations will indeed reinforce the fight against the individuals producing and selling these hazardous substances. Arlene Gonzalez-Sanchez, New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Commissioner echoed Zucker’s positive attitudes emphasizing that these drugs must get off the streets.

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