State officials in Illinois are trying to trace a batch of synthetic cannabinoids — commonly called "fake weed" — that has led to one death and 45 other cases of severe bleeding in Chicago and across central Illinois. All of the cases required hospitalization, and three of the victims tested positive for rat poison, CNN reported Monday.
Synthetic cannabinoids — man-made chemicals that are similar to the mind-altering substances found in marijuana — can be up to 85 times as potent as their natural counterparts. They're sold everywhere from convenience stores to novelty shops to online, but often contain a "variety" of compounds that users might not know about, said Dr. Nirav Shah, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health. Even though they are considered by some to be a safer alternative to marijuana, the health risks can be serious, including vomiting, seizures, hallucinations, and even heart attacks.
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