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Are Synthetic Cannabinoid Medications as Effective as Cannabis?
By binding to these receptors, AEA and 2-AG regulate basic, core sensations and functions, including pain, hunger, and mood. Using Cannabis causes THC and other cannabinoids to bind to the same receptors, which is why Cannabis works to combat pain, stimulate appetite, and improve mood.
Synthetic cannabinoids can produce similar effects, though there are some issues with efficacy, tolerability, and, on the research side, FDA testing. We’ll discuss those issues in a few moments; but before we continue, it’s critically important to make a distinction between FDA-approved synthetic cannabinoid medications, such as Marinol (Dronabinol), and street synthetic cannabinoids that are used recreationally.
The latter category is often described as “synthetic marijuana” and includes substances like “Spice” or “K-2.” Unlike synthetic cannabinoid medications, which are formulated by experienced chemists working under tightly controlled conditions, Spice or K-2 is simply plant matter that has been sprayed with… Well, that’s precisely the problem. It’s impossible for consumers to know exactly what goes into these dangerous, harmful products, which have been criminalized in most parts of the world due to causing effects that range from convulsions to heart attacks to, in extreme cases, fatal organ failure.
You should absolutely never purchase or use these products, regardless of your medical background. I cannot emphasize that strongly enough. There is a very real risk of death from using Spice or K-2! There are many other names for these sort of street cannabinoids. Don’t be fooled.