Risk Management Strategies of Synthetic Cannabinoid Users

• In Event: Roundtable: Substance Use

Abstract

This paper is based on a current study of the use and market of synthetic cathinones (also known as "bath salts") in New York City (NYC), Houston, Galveston and New Orleans. Preliminary data from recruitment efforts and in-depth interviews shows pervasive use of synthetic cannabinoids (often referred to as "K2") among a sample of drug users in all four cities. For example, 59% of 54 baseline study participants use or have used K2. In addition, out of 142 people screened for consumption of novel psychedelic drugs in NYC, 68% reported using K2 at least once. Data also indicates that users are aware of drug related risks and implement strategies to reduce negative health and social harm. Respondents are cognizant of potential health hazards such as seizures, hallucination and self-inflicted violence. They are also conscious of possible drug adulteration/substitution by dealers and individual exposure to arrest. This paper will explore the various ways K2 users manage the dangers associated with its consumption. Given the high risk to health, past publications on synthetic cannabinoids have largely focused on initiation and physical effects. No study to date has recorded how users formulate ways to keep themselves safe.

Authors

• Stephanie Campos, National Development and Research Institutes, Inc.

• Ellen Benoit, National Development and Research Institutes, Inc.

• Eloise Dunlap, National Development and Research Institutes, Inc.