Synthetic Marijuana Outlawed in New York

Synthetic marijuana was banned across New York on Thursday after being linked to dangerous health risks.

It will be no more "Mr Nice Guy," or "Smiley Dog," "Spice," "Galaxy Gold" or any other brands of the fake pot, which until now had been sold across the counter in convenience stores and tobacco shops.

Drug Abuse | Drug Addiction | Substance Abuse - Overview
The use of Drugs for reasons other than its prescribed recommendation, is known as Drug abuse or substance abuse. Drug abuse or substance abuse is initiated by various biological and social factors.

The ban was issued by New York State Health Commissioner Nirav Shah and his New York City equivalent with immediate effect.

Synthetic marijuana is a plant material coated with chemicals imitating THC, the active ingredient in marijuana.

The state order said the product had been linked to "severe adverse reactions, including death and acute renal failure," and commonly caused increased heart rates, paranoia, nausea, confusion, seizures and loss of consciousness.

Accident and Trauma Care - Golden Hour - Taking Care - Don’t
Accident and trauma care is an important public health challenge that requires immediate attention. Injury (trauma) is the leading cause of death for all age groups under the age of 44.

"The Commissioner's order calls for sales and distribution of these products to cease immediately," Shah's office said in a statement.

"The drugs that are sold as 'synthetic marijuana' are new and poorly understood, but reports from poison control centers show that they are toxic and can be very dangerous," New York City health chief Thomas Farley said.

Alcohol Use Disorder | Alcoholism
Alcohol use disorder or alcoholism is an inability to control drinking. It can cause short term and long term physical, as well as psychological effects on the patient.

"Because they are sold in stores, people may believe they are safe, and use of these drugs is increasing rapidly in New York City. With this order we are getting them off store shelves and telling everyone in New York City to never use them."

The city health department said it expects it will mail the order to about 10,000 retailers. It called on New Yorkers to report non-compliance.

Drug Abuse Screening Test
Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST) is a screening test to find out if you need professional help with ‘Drug Abuse’ problem. This is only an anonymous self test.

"Synthetic cannabinoids are not marijuana," Robert Hoffman, head of the New York City Poison Control Center, said.

"They are unique drugs made in a lab that have one effect in common with marijuana but potentially many other different effects. They are sold as herbal products, giving users a perception of safety, but in fact they are toxic drugs sprayed on plant leaves."

Source-AFP