While no drug use is safest, if you are going to use anything, make sure you know how to look after yourself and your friends.
Please take a few moments to read this Cannabis Harm Reduction advice from NORML, the health effects of cannabis, and NORML's Principles of Responsible Cannabis Use:
SYNTHETIC CANNABIS HARM REDUCTION ADVICE FROM THE STAR TRUST:
Synthetic cannabinoids are structurally different from THC (the active component of cannabis) but act in similar ways to affect the cannabinoid system in the brain. We don’t know much about the health effects of synthetic cannabinoids. There is a lack of research to report on the effects of synthetic cannabinoids.
Some reported adverse effects of synthetic cannabinoids include: fast and irregular heartbeat, anxiety, tachypnea (rapid breathing), nausea, heart palpitations, paranoia, hallucinations, tremors, death.
Negative symptoms generally last no longer than 3-4 hours, with no remaining adverse effects in most cases. Younger consumers are more at risk of negative side effects. However people with pre-existing mental health conditions appear to be particularly negatively affected by synthetic cannabinoids, and some deaths have occurred. Mixing drugs and alcohol with synthetic cannabinoids can create unwanted side effects.
GETTING HELP
If you have any concerns about your own or another person's use of social tonics, the following contacts can help:
* Alcohol & Drug Helpline 0800 787 797
* Community Alcohol Drug Service (CADS) 09 845 1818 or 03 476 9760
* Lifeline 0800 543 354
Useful websites:
* Webhealth
* New Zealand Drug Foundation
* Sorted
* The LowDown
* Alcohol and Drug Association of New Zealand has a directory of local services available.
TO REPORT AN ADVERSE REACTION OR INCIDENT
Either talk to your doctor, who can file an incident report with the Centre for Adverse Reaction Monitoring, or call the National Poisons Centre on 0800 POISON (0800 764 766) or see www.poisons.co.nz. Tell them what you have taken including the brand name and any other substances including alcohol or medications.