Fake Marijuana Sickens Over 200 In Austin

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AUSTIN (CBSDFW.COM/AP) — Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) claims that over 200 people have been sickened in the last three weeks after taking a synthetic drug known as K2.

The drug is designed to mimic the effects of marijuana. It is commonly referred to as spice, K2, herbal incense, or even potpourri. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration says it can raise the heart rate and blood pressure and cause seizures, agitation, vomiting, hallucinations, violent behavior, inability to breathe, and psychotic episodes.

On Saturday night alone, authorities in Austin reportedly handled fourteen people suffering from the side effects of K2.

Authorities say the recent spate of cases has lasted nearly three weeks. In the past, several spikes in calls related to the drug only lasted up to four days.

Although the synthetic drug is still legal under Texas state law until September 1st, Austin police are working to tamp down street-level dealers.

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