Spice Addiction | Signs, Symptoms & Effects

Spice has an almost horror movie reputation with tabloid media reports of users acquiring superhuman strength and even turning into “zombies” who attack and try to eat people. It goes without saying that these claims are wildly exaggerated but they do highlight just how dangerous and unpredictable Spice can be. The truth is that Spice addiction is a daily battle that can leave victims feeling isolated, scared and desperate for a way out. Understanding the true nature of Spice addiction and its effects is crucial for getting the right help and starting on the path to recovery.

What is Spice?

Spice, often referred to as “synthetic cannabis” or “fake weed,” is a powerful and dangerous drug that is nothing like the natural cannabis it tries to imitate. Spice is made by spraying a mixture of synthetic chemicals onto dried plant material, which is then smoked, vaped or sometimes brewed into tea.

One of the biggest problems with Spice is that the chemicals used are constantly changing to get around drug laws, meaning that every batch can be different. This makes it extremely unpredictable, with effects that can be much stronger and more harmful than real cannabis. While it was originally marketed as a “legal high,” Spice is now illegal in the UK, but it is still widely available on the streets and online, causing serious problems for those who use it.

What is Spice addiction?

Spice addiction is a serious form of legal high addiction that develops when you become dependent on the synthetic cannabinoids found in Spice. You might start using Spice out of curiosity or as a cheaper alternative to real cannabis, but it doesn’t take long for addiction to take hold. At first, one or two hits may be enough, but you may soon find that you need more and more to get high. This escalating need can quickly spiral out of control, leading to daily use and an overwhelming craving for Spice.

As your tolerance builds, the highs become shorter and less satisfying, pushing you to use even larger amounts. Before you know it, Spice isn’t just something you do to relax or have fun – it becomes something you feel like you need. Once addicted to Spice, you become completely dependent on Spice on a physical, psychological and emotional level, and even cutting down can seem impossible.

Spice addiction signs to look out for:

Spice addiction signs can be physical, mental and behavioural and being able to spot them early can be a huge step towards getting the necessary help. Here are some of the telltale Spice addiction symptoms to be aware of:

Spice is always on your mind: No matter what you are doing, your thoughts keep drifting back to getting your next Spice hit.
Feeling rough when you don’t use Spice: This may include feeling shaky, nauseous or just plain awful.
Letting life slip by: You start skipping work and school or neglecting your friends to get high on Spice.
Chasing a fading high: That first hit isn’t enough anymore so you need more and more Spice to reach the same buzz.
Avoiding everyone: Social events and family time take a back seat as you isolate yourself to use Spice.
Your memory has gone hazy: You might find yourself forgetting things, feeling confused or struggling to focus.
You experience paranoia or hallucinations: Spice addiction can make you feel like someone is out to get you or you might see or hear things that aren’t really there.
Neglecting your appearance: You may begin to notice weight loss, a gaunt appearance or other signs of physical deterioration.

What makes Spice so addictive?

Spice is incredibly addictive due to a combination of its powerful chemical effects and certain personal factors that make some people more vulnerable.

Chemically, Spice is made up of synthetic cannabinoids, which are much stronger than the natural compounds found in cannabis. These chemicals latch onto the receptors in your brain, flooding it with dopamine and creating its intense effects. But the high from Spice is short-lived, which can quickly lead to a cycle of repeated use as your brain craves that intense feeling again and again.

But it is not just the chemicals in Spice that reel you in – personal factors can play a huge role, too. If you are dealing with stress, trauma or battling mental health issues, Spice might seem like an easy way to numb the pain. Spice is also very cheap and easy to get, so using it as a quick escape from everything weighing you down can be tempting. This can be a slippery slope, especially if you or your parents have a history of substance abuse as this could signal a heightened risk of addiction.

Why is Spice a dangerous drug?

Spice might seem like a cheap and easy high, but it can also be a ticking time bomb. The real danger lies in its unpredictability as you never really know what you’re smoking. Each batch of Spice is a cocktail of synthetic chemicals, and just one hit can send you spiralling into severe panic, hallucinations or a terrifying sense of paranoia that can make you feel completely out of control.
Physically, the effects of Spice abuse are equally severe. It can put your heart under immense strain, leading to rapid heartbeats and dangerously high blood pressure and in some cases, can trigger seizures or even a heart attack. Over time, continued Spice abuse can severely damage vital organs like your liver and kidneys, leading to long-term health issues that are tough to bounce back from.
Beyond the physical risks, Spice addiction takes a heavy toll on your mind and emotions. When you are addicted to Spice, it can plunge you into deep depression and make it hard to connect with reality. Spice addiction can grip you so tightly that it becomes the centre of your world, pushing away everything and everyone you care about.
It is this combination of physical and psychological dangers that makes Spice not just a risky drug but a potentially life-destroying one.

How is Spice addiction treated?

At Linwood House, Spice addiction treatment starts with a medically monitored detox. This stage allows your body to naturally clear Spice and its toxins while our doctors and medical team take care of you around the clock.
Once your body is free from Spice, the next stage of all legal high addiction treatment is rehab. This is a programme of different therapy modes designed to help you understand why Spice has become a crutch. You will work with therapists who can guide you through talking about your experiences and feelings, helping you find better ways to navigate life’s challenges.
Finally, after rehab, the journey continues with aftercare. This includes regular outpatient group therapy, where you can share your progress, get support from others who understand what you are going through and keep building on the positive changes you’ve made.

Get help for Spice addiction today

Spice addiction might make you feel like you’re stuck in a never-ending nightmare, but it doesn’t have to be this way. With compassionate support and expert treatment, Linwood House can break free from Spice’s grip and start living again. Don’t let another day slip by – reach out now and take the first step towards the future you deserve.

h2>Frequently Asked Questions

What is a ‘Spice vape’?

Spice vapes are devices used to inhale Spice. They vaporise the drug, making it easier to inhale Spice and not requiring the user to roll it into a joint. Spice vapes may seem less harmful but vaping can be just as dangerous and addictive as smoking Spice. The unpredictable and potent chemicals in Spice can lead to severe health issues, no matter how you use it.

Is Spice actually legal?

No, Spice is not legal. It was once sold as a “legal high” because its ingredients kept changing to dodge drug laws but Spice is now banned in the UK. The Psychoactive Substances Act of 2016 made it illegal to produce, supply or possess Spice. Despite this, Spice is still widely available in the UK and using it can lead to serious legal consequences and health risks.

Is it possible to overdose on Spice?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on Spice, and it can be extremely dangerous. Spice is made from synthetic chemicals that are much stronger and more unpredictable than natural cannabis. A Spice overdose can cause severe symptoms like extreme agitation, hallucinations, seizures and even heart attacks. In some cases, a Spice overdose can be fatal so you should get medical assistance right away if you or someone else shows signs of an overdose.

(Click here to see works cited)

FRANK. “Synthetic cannabinoids | Effects and Risks.” FRANK, https://www.talktofrank.com/drug/synthetic-cannabinoids. Accessed 26 August 2024.
NHS inform. “Synthetic cannabinoids (Spice).” NHS inform, 14 May 2024, https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/drugs-and-drug-use/common-drugs/synthetic-cannabinoids-spice/. Accessed 26 August 2024.
UK Rehab. “Spice Addiction | Causes, Symptoms and Diagnosis.” UK Rehab, https://www.uk-rehab.com/legal-high-addiction/spice/. Accessed 26 August 2024.
de Oliveira, Mariana Campello et al. “Toxicity of Synthetic Cannabinoids in K2/Spice: A Systematic Review.” Brain sciences vol. 13,7 990. 24 Jun. 2023, doi:10.3390/brainsci13070990