Synthetic drugs cause big problems

A poster warns of the effects of the drug known as ‘Spice’ at the Naval Hospital in San Diego. The Navy has investigated more than 700 sailors and Marines this year for smoking the “synthetic” marijuana. (Associated Press)

Story Topics

• Health_Medical_Pharma
• Social Issues
• Mary Jo Clark
• Jay King
• Floyd Valley Hospital

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LE MARS, Iowa (AP) — Unknowns surrounding the illegal synthetic drugs K2 and “bath salts” are causing problems for treating victims and enforcing drug laws.

Because K2, a synthetic marijuana, and “bath salts,” synthetic chemicals, are made by mixing various chemicals, some health experts think their side effects are more severe.

For example, K2 is often made by mixing Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, a component from marijuana with other compounds, said Le Mars Police Officer Jay King.

“It is a lot more powerful than regular marijuana,” he said.

Some common side effects similar in taking K2 and “bath salts” include elevated blood pressure, rapid heart rate, violent tendencies, hallucinations, anxiety and paranoia.

Mary Jo Clark, ER/trauma coordinator at Floyd Valley Hospital, in Le Mars, said health care workers are often not aware of K2 and “bath salts” use unless patients tell them.

“Because this (K2) is synthetic there is a chance that when we do a urine toxicology screen it won’t show up there,” she explained.

That’s why it’s very important for anyone who has been experimenting or using the illegal drugs to tell health care workers, Clark said.

“We need people to be honest with us,” she said. “If we don’t know what’s wrong with you, we can’t treat you.”

Clark explained if someone comes to the hospital with a racing heart and anxiety, she treats the symptoms, but many ailments have similar effects.

“I could be treating you for one drug, when it’s another drug, and it may be the wrong treatment,” she said.

Clark added that health care workers do not call the authorities if a patient is found to have used K2 or “bath salts” or other illegal drugs.

“We’re not condoning the use of illegal substances, but when you come into the hospital we’re here to treat people. We’re not here to punish them,” she said.

However, Clark noted that if a crime was committed law enforcement can request tests be performed at the hospital by obtaining a legal order or subpoena.

Along with health care, the lack of initial testing to detect the illegal synthetic drugs also affects how law enforcement deal with violators.

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