Synthetic marijuana products such as Spice and K2 are often misunderstood—and frequently underestimated. Despite their name, these substances have no real connection to marijuana, and their ever-changing chemical makeup makes their effects wildly unpredictable.
In this episode of Fast Facts: Ask the Expert, host Andrew Johnston is joined by Tom Viola, RPh, CCP, to unpack what’s really behind these drugs. Viola explains how Spice and K2 are manufactured, why no two uses produce the same effects, and how this unpredictability raises serious concerns for clinicians.
The conversation explores:
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Why “synthetic marijuana” is a misleading label
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How unknown ingredients and variable potency increase the risk of psychosis, seizures, and respiratory failure
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The double standard some patients apply to prescription drugs versus illicit substances
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What dental hygienists should understand when assessing patient risk and substance use history
For dental professionals focused on patient safety, prevention, and education, this episode offers essential context on a category of drugs that continues to evolve—and continues to harm.
Listen now to better understand the clinical and real-world implications of Spice and K2.
