Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers say a man whose car ran off Interstate 44, crossed over 51st Street and smashed into a Tulsa restaurant was under the influence of K2, also known as "spice," a synthetic drug that is smoked like marijuana.
Law enforcement is growing increasingly concerned about the drug, citing its unpredictable effects which range from mild intoxication to psychotic episodes, seizures, and even death.
Some people smoke it because they it can't be detected by many drug tests.
K2 is generally a mixture of herbs that is sprayed with the active drug and sold as a "deodorizer" or "incense" under various names.
Others think it's less dangerous than other drugs, but as noted, the effects can vary widely depending on the individual, and because it's often illegal, it's unregulated.
Side effects listed by researchers include:
- Extreme Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Anxiety
- Temporary Paralysis of Motor Skills
- Elevated Heart Rate
- Uncontrollable Sweating
- High Body Temperature
- Manic Rage
- Delusions
- Seizures
- Vomiting
- Rapid Heart Rate
- Stroke
- Death
Law enforcement says the drug continues to be sold openly at some convenience stores, despite laws that ban it.