En español
NIDA

Menu

K2/Spice (Synthetic Marijuana)

NN -- SpiceImage courtesy of Coolidge Youth Coalition

Brief Description

"Spice" refers to a wide variety of herbal mixtures that produce experiences similar to marijuana (cannabis) and that are marketed as "safe," legal alternatives to that drug. Sold under many names, including K2, fake weed, Yucatan Fire, Skunk, Moon Rocks, and others — and labeled "not for human consumption" — these products contain dried, shredded plant material and chemical additives that are responsible for their psychoactive (mind-altering) effects. Learn more

Featured Publications

Spice (Synthetic Marijuana) (DrugFacts)

Published January 2011. Revised December 2012.
Provides information about spice, a family of herbal mixtures that produce effects similar to that of marijuana, including how it is used, potential health effects, and public health concerns. En Español

Related Resources

Other Resources

Past information on many drugs of abuse is available on our Archives site.

Tags

This page was last updated April 2013

    Attention

    Due to the lapse in government funding, the information on this web site may not be up to date, transactions submitted via the web site may not be processed, and the agency may not be able to respond to inquiries until appropriations are enacted. Updates regarding government operating status and resumption of normal operations can be found at

    Looking for Treatment?

    Use the SAMHSA Treatment Locator or 1-800-662-HELP.

    Helpline open during government shutdown

    Featured Publication

    Featured Publication

    Drugs, Brains, and Behavior - The Science of Addiction

    As a result of scientific research, we know that addiction is a disease that affects both brain and behavior.

    Easy-to-read Drug Facts