From the Research
If someone is intoxicated from K2 (synthetic cannabinoids), seek immediate medical attention, as K2 intoxication can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening, with effects including rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, agitation, hallucinations, seizures, and kidney damage, as reported in a case series published in The American journal of emergency medicine 1.
Effects of K2 Intoxication
The effects of K2 intoxication can be unpredictable and severe, with a range of symptoms including:
- Rapid heart rate and high blood pressure
- Agitation, hallucinations, and seizures
- Kidney damage and acute kidney injury
- Nausea, confusion, dizziness, and vertigo
- Chest pain, heart attacks, and strokes
Treatment of K2 Intoxication
Treatment of K2 intoxication typically involves supportive care, with a focus on managing symptoms and preventing complications, including:
- Monitoring vital signs
- Intravenous fluids for hydration
- Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam 5-10 mg IV) for agitation or seizures
- Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol 2-5 mg IM) for severe agitation or psychosis
- Cooling measures if hyperthermia is present There is no specific antidote for K2 intoxication, and treatment should be individualized based on the patient's symptoms and medical history, as noted in a review of the K2/Spice phenomenon published in Drug metabolism reviews 2.
Importance of Medical Attention
It is essential to seek immediate medical attention if someone is intoxicated from K2, as the effects can be life-threatening, and prompt treatment can help prevent complications and improve outcomes, as emphasized in a study on acute intoxication in adults published in Deutsche medizinische Wochenschrift (1946) 3.