There have been three deaths in Illinois that have been linked to the use of synthetic cannabinoid products. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued warnings regarding potential side effects from these drugs, including from major bleeding episodes. Synthetic cannabinoids are man-made drugs that have similar chemical structures to those found in marijuana plants. A total of 107 individuals experienced severe bleeding after using these products. Symptoms include bleeding gums, internal bleeding, severe bloody noses, and hematuria. Users may also experience delusions, suicidal thoughts, seizures, kidney failure, muscle damage, and heart attacks. Patients who took synthetic cannabinoids also tested positive for brodifacoum, which is a chemical that is found in rat poison. To combat the use of synthetic cannabinoids, the federal, local, and state governments have banned certain ingredients used in making synthetic cannabinoids.
