Synthetic cannabinoids are human-made mind-altering chemicals that are either sprayed on dried, shredded plant material so they can be smoked or sold as liquids to be vaporized and inhaled in e-cigarettes and other devices. These products are also known as herbal or liquid incense. Learn about the health effects of synthetic cannabinoids and read the DrugFacts.
Common Names
K2, Spice, Joker, Black Mamba, Kush, and Kronic
Looking for Treatment?
Use the SAMHSA Treatment Locator or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Related Content
Multimedia
Related Resources
- Synthetic Cannabinoids (K2/Spice) Unpredictable Danger - See an infographic showing that synthetic cannabinoids, like K2 or Spice, are not natural drugs and can lead to dangerous health effects.
- NIDA for Teens Drug Facts on Spice - Offers resources for teens and teen influencers. Get the latest on how drugs affect the brain and body. Features videos, games, blog posts, and more!
- Easy-to-Read Drug Facts on Spice (K2) - Has pictures and videos to help readers understand the text. The website also can read each page out loud.
- Drug Testing Misses Synthetic Cannabinoids: Expert (Partnership for Drug-Free Kids, April 2016)
- The Changing Face of Recreational Drug Use (Cerebrum, January 2016)
Other Resources
- MEDLINEplus Health Information on Drug Abuse (National Library of Medicine, NIH)
- Healthfinder.gov (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services)
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are research studies in human volunteers conducted to answer specific health questions. Learn about the NIH-sponsored clinical trials available to you.
- NIDA Clinical Trial Locator - answer a few simple questions and get contact information for Clinical Trials near you.