2014 Articles

A 'spicy' encephalopathy: synthetic cannabinoids as cause of encephalopathy and seizure

Louh, Irene Kathryn Klein; Freeman, William

Synthetic cannabinoids, often sold under labels such as 'spice', are a popular product sold in incense shops and on the internet. When inhaled, consumers often report experiences similar to marijuana use, thus making synthetic cannabinoids a popular street substitute for marijuana. With increasing use, the number of patients presenting to emergency departments due to the toxic effects of these products has increased. While many reported side effects, including anxiety, agitation, tachycardia, and hypertension, are transient and relatively mild, reports of more severe consequences, including psychosis and seizures, are increasing, with ICU admissions.