Synthetic cannabinoids

Synnies have a powerful "out of it" effect. Beyond that, it's impossible for us to tell you the experience you will have because you are unlikely to know what synthetic cannabinoid you have. That said, be prepared for these common experiences to varying degrees:

• Use very small amounts and wait for the full effect before having more. Track how much time has passed. Inexperienced users should wait one hour before trying more
• Ensure one person in a group is not using so they can respond in an emergency
• Sit down before using
• Use use thin papers and not card
• Using precise dosing in a vaporiser is less harmful and less likely to result in overdose
• Mixing synthetic cannabinoids with alcohol or other drugs can increase harmful side effects
• Mixing synthetics with tobacco reduces chance of overdose, but involves risk of nicotine addiction - other plant material can be used 
• Limit use by using occasionally, such as monthly or during holidays.

If someone falls unconscious after smoking synthetic cannabinoids they could die.

1. Ask loudly if they are OK. Shake them gently
2. If they are not responsive, dial 111 and request an ambulance
3. Check they are breathing and place them in a stable side position. If they are not breathing start chest compressions.

People are often very out of it after using synthetic cannabinoids. They may collapse or “drop”, foam at the mouth or experience temporary paralysis.

Place them in a stable side position if possible and continuously monitor breathing.

Always call an ambulance if someone:

• is unconscious
• stops breathing
• has a seizure
• is extremely agitated for longer than 15 minutes
• has chest pain or breathing difficulties for longer than 5 minutes.

• Synthetic cannabinoids are very addictive
• They can make you anxious and can make mental health problems worse
• Synnies vary from batch to batch
• An unpleasant comedown can come on fast and make you want to take more.

For heavy users, the comedown or withdrawal can last days or weeks depending on how much and how often the drug was used. There are a range of common symptoms:

• cravings
• sweats
• dehydration
• irritability
• sleeping problems
• feeling emotional/low mood
• difficulty concentrating.

Seek help to manage more serious withdrawal symptoms such as:

• difficulty stopping use
• weight loss
• suicidal feelings
• paranoia, anxiety and panic attacks
• uncontrollable anger.

A significant number of users in New Zealand experience extreme reactions, serious psychological distress or loss of consciousness requiring hospitalisation with risk of death.