title: The "new" marijuana.
abstract: Synthetic cannabinoid-induced toxicity is increasing in frequency across the US, with more than 1057 reported cases as of August 2010. There is a paucity of literature on synthetic cannabinoid toxicity; however, there are various reports of adverse effects including tachycardia, hypertension, tachypnea, chest pain, heart palpitations, hallucinations, racing thoughts, and seizures. While reports suggest that toxic symptoms last no longer than 3-4 hours, with no residual adverse effects in many cases, there is concern about serious acute and long-term toxicities. This article reviews the development, abuse, toxicity, treatment, and legal status of synthetic cannabinoids. It is important for health-care professionals to recognize and appropriately treat synthetic cannabinoid-induced toxicity.
authors.affiliation: Department of Mental Health, Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center, Columbia, SC, USA. Daina.Wells@va.gov
authors.forename: Daina L
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Wells
authors.forename: Carol A
authors.initials: CA
authors.lastname: Ott
mesh_terms: D002186:Cannabinoids / Q000138:chemical synthesis / Q000506:poisoning*; D006801:Humans; D013287:Illicit Drugs / Q000138:chemical synthesis / Q000506:poisoning*; D007211:Indoles / Q000506:poisoning*; D002189:Marijuana Abuse; D009281:Naphthalenes / Q000506:poisoning*
chemical_list: D002186:Cannabinoids; D013287:Illicit Drugs; D007211:Indoles; D009281:Naphthalenes; C552597:1-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole