‘on colos’
Colos, also known as Colorado or synthetic marijuana, is a drug that resembles natural marijuana. Unlike cannabis strains such as sativa and indica, Colos consists of shredded dry leaves or grass sprayed with harmful chemicals designed to mimic the effect of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active compound in marijuana that induces a high.
Synthetic cannabis is often sold in shiny, colorful packets labeled “not for human consumption.” It goes by various names, including Scooby Snax, Black Mamba, and Potpourri. Many youths buy it because it is cheaper than natural marijuana and does not show up in drug tests. However, the exact chemicals used in synthetic marijuana are unknown and constantly changing, making it highly unpredictable and dangerous.
Side Effects of Smoking Colos
Dr. Adebayo Adekunle spoke to ThisDay Live about the side effects of smoking Colos. The common side effects include:
- Anxiety: Users often experience heightened anxiety levels.
- Paranoia: Colos can induce severe paranoia, causing users to feel extremely suspicious and fearful.
- Psychosis: This can lead to a disconnect from reality, with symptoms similar to those of schizophrenia.
- Mood Swings: Users may experience drastic changes in mood, from euphoria to depression.
- Hallucinations: Colos can cause vivid and disturbing hallucinations.
- Elevated Heart Rate: Users may experience an increased heart rate, which can be dangerous for individuals with heart conditions.
- Vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are common side effects.
- Organ Failure: In extreme cases, the use of Colos can lead to organ failure, posing a significant health risk.
The effects of Colos are felt almost immediately after smoking, making it a fast-acting but dangerous substance.
Legal Status and Availability
In most countries, the chemicals used in synthetic marijuana are banned due to their harmful effects. Recreational drugs, including synthetic marijuana, are illegal in Nigeria. Despite this, Colos is widely available on the black market, often smuggled into the country illegally.
Conclusion
While synthetic marijuana like Colos might seem appealing due to its lower cost and lack of detection in drug tests, the side effects and health risks far outweigh these benefits. Anxiety, paranoia, psychosis, mood swings, and even organ failure are among the dangers associated with its use.
It’s crucial for individuals, especially the youth, to be aware of these risks and make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.
For more information on the side effects and risks of synthetic marijuana, you can refer to databases like the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and local health authorities such as the Nigerian Ministry of Health.
