More cases of synthetic marijuana confirmed in Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The City of Milwaukee Health Department says more cases of synthetic marijuana have been confirmed in Milwaukee. The synthetic drug most commonly referred to as K2 or Spice has resulted in five confirmed cases and five probable cases since June 20.

Synthetic marijuana can cause severe bleeding, unexplained bruising, and possibly death. Synthetic cannabinoids consists of a number of mind-altering chemicals that are made and sprayed on dried plant materials, or sold as liquids to be inhaled in products like e-cigarettes or other vaping devices.

The products can be found in convenience stores, gas stations, drug paraphernalia shops, and online. They are sold for recreational drug use with claims that they will provide the user with similar effects of cannabis. The products are marketed as a safe alternative to marijuana, but they are not safe – the effects of the products can be unpredictable, harmful, and life-threatening.