As synthetic drugs continue to evolve, more and more people are turning to substances that seem “legal” or “natural” — but in reality, are far from safe. Two of the most commonly misunderstood categories are synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic THC.
While both are designed to mimic the effects of marijuana, they differ significantly in how they’re made, how they work in the body, and the risks they pose. From gas station gummies to potent street blends like Spice and K2, these substances are gaining popularity — and raising concern.
At BIG SKY Treatment, we help individuals and families navigate the real dangers behind synthetic drug use. In this post, we break it all down so you can understand the facts and make informed choices.
What Are Synthetic Cannabinoids?
Synthetic cannabinoids are man-made chemicals that target the same brain receptors as THC — but that’s where the similarity ends. These compounds are often sprayed onto dried plant material and smoked, or sold as liquids for vapes.
They go by names like Spice, K2, Scooby Snax, or Black Mamba, and are frequently labeled as “herbal incense” or “not for human consumption” — a tactic to avoid regulation.
The danger? Synthetic cannabinoids can be 50 to 100 times more potent than natural THC, and their effects are wildly unpredictable. People have experienced hallucinations, seizures, psychosis, heart attacks, and even death after using them.
What Is Synthetic THC?
Synthetic THC refers to lab-created versions of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. Some forms, like dronabinol (Marinol), are FDA-approved and prescribed medically. Others — such as Delta-8, Delta-10, THC-O, and HHC — are sold in smoke shops, online, or even in gas stations throughout Montana and the United States.
These newer cannabinoids are often hemp-derived, allowing them to skirt around marijuana laws in many states. They’re infused into gummies, vapes, tinctures, and more.
Here’s the catch: Even though they’re marketed as “natural” or “mild,” these substances can still cause anxiety, paranoia, and dependency, especially in high doses. Because they’re unregulated, it’s hard to know what you’re really getting.
Synthetic Cannabinoids vs Synthetic THC: What’s the Difference?
Examples of Synthetic Products on the Market
Synthetic Cannabinoids:
- Spice: One of the most well-known synthetic cannabinoids. It’s typically a mix of dried plant material sprayed with lab-made chemicals that mimic THC, often resulting in intense and unpredictable effects.
- K2: A popular street name for synthetic cannabinoids, usually sold in colorful packaging and marketed as “herbal incense.” Despite its legal-sounding appearance, it can cause severe side effects like hallucinations, paranoia, and even heart problems.
- Black Mamba: A highly potent and dangerous synthetic cannabinoid known for causing extreme aggression, psychosis, and medical emergencies. It’s been linked to numerous overdoses and hospitalizations.
- Scooby Snax: A brand name for synthetic cannabinoids, often sold in foil packets with cartoon branding. It has no relation to cannabis and has been associated with erratic behavior, seizures, and toxic reactions.
- Mr. Nice Guy: Another branded synthetic cannabinoid product, misleadingly marketed as a legal or safe high. It has been found to contain unpredictable chemical compounds that may change from batch to batch, increasing health risks.
Note: They often come in flashy packaging and are sold in head shops or online as a legal alternative to cannabis.
Synthetic THC Products:
- Delta-8 THC: Often described as “weed-lite,” but can be very potent
- Delta-10 THC: Marketed as a “smoother” high
- THC-O: Up to 3x stronger than traditional THC
- HHC: A hydrogenated form of THC with unclear effects
- Gummies and vapes: Widely available, often misleadingly labeled
The Real Risks of Synthetic Products
Even though many of these substances are marketed as safe or legal alternatives, they carry serious health risks, including:
- Overdose and toxicity
- Psychosis and violent behavior
- Addiction and withdrawal symptoms
- Failed drug tests, even when the product says “THC-Free”, leading to job loss
- Unknown or contaminated ingredients
Most of these products are not tested or approved for safety, and what is on the label is often not what is in the product.
Kratom: A Related Concern
While not a cannabinoid, Kratom is increasingly used in similar ways — as a so-called “natural” alternative for pain relief, mood enhancement, or managing opiate withdrawal. Extracted from the leaves of a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, Kratom interacts with the brain’s opioid receptors, producing stimulant effects in low doses and sedative, pain-relieving effects in higher doses.
⚠️ The concern? Kratom is completely unregulated in the U.S. and often sold at gas stations, vape shops, or online in the form of powders, capsules, or energy shots. Many users initially turn to it as a tool for managing symptoms — but over time, it can lead to tolerance, physical dependence, and withdrawal symptoms similar to opioids.
Some have described it as “a legal substance with very real risks.” Reports of liver damage, agitation, heart issues, and addictive behavior are growing, especially with frequent or high-dose use.
What About CBD (Cannabidiol)?
With so much focus on synthetic THC and hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8, it’s easy to confuse them with CBD (Cannabidiol) — but CBD is very different.
CBD is a naturally occurring compound found in both hemp and marijuana plants. Unlike THC, it’s non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t cause a “high.” Instead, CBD is often used for anxiety, sleep support, pain relief, and general wellness.
You’ll find it in:
- Gummies and oils
- Topicals and balms
- Capsules and drinks
Is it safe? When pure and properly labeled, CBD is generally considered safe and non-addictive. But because the market is unregulated, some products may:
- Contain THC, even if they claim not to
- Be inaccurately labeled or contaminated
- Trigger a positive drug test, especially in high doses or “full-spectrum” forms
Quick reality check: Many people assume that because CBD is “natural,” it’s always safe — but purity, dosage, and individual reactions still matter. For someone in recovery or being drug tested for work, even trace amounts of THC in a CBD product could cause issues.
With all the talk of synthetics and hemp-derived alternatives, it’s important to remember the original source: marijuana, or cannabis.
Marijuana is a natural plant that contains over 100 cannabinoids — including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Unlike CBD, THC is psychoactive and responsible for the “high” that cannabis is known for.
Here’s what’s important to understand:
- Today’s marijuana is stronger than ever. Decades ago, the average THC content in cannabis was around 2–4%. Now, it’s often 20–30%, and in concentrates (like dabs or oils), THC levels can exceed 90%.
- High-THC strains can increase the risk of mental health issues, including anxiety, psychosis, and cannabis use disorder — especially in teens and young adults.
- “Natural” doesn’t always mean “safe.” While marijuana is legal in many states, that doesn’t make it harmless — particularly for individuals in recovery or with underlying mental health conditions.
- ❗Synthetic THC and Delta products are often marketed as “safer” or “legal” versions of marijuana, but they can actually be more dangerous due to a lack of regulation, unknown ingredients, and misleading packaging.
Marijuana use can be complex. Some people turn to it to manage anxiety or sleep, while others may use it heavily to cope with stress, trauma, or boredom.
How BIG SKY Treatment Can Help
At BIG SKY Treatment, we see firsthand how synthetic drug use can derail lives. Our outpatient addiction programs in Kalispell, Montana, are designed to help both adults and adolescents overcome substance use and underlying mental health challenges.
Our Experiential Therapy Program includes:
- Equine therapy: Build trust, self-awareness, and emotional healing through connection with horses
- ⛰️ Outdoor activities: Boost confidence, leadership, and self-regulation
- Art activities and music therapy: Explore feelings, process trauma, and rediscover passion
- Mindfulness and nature-based approaches: Calm the nervous system and support long-term growth
Final Thoughts
Synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic THC may look like easy alternatives — especially when they’re sold over the counter or online — but the reality is far more dangerous. They’re unregulated, misleading, and potentially harmful.
If you or someone you love is struggling with these substances, BIG SKY Treatment is here to support the journey toward recovery — with compassion, community, and connection at the core.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you or your loved one break free from the hold of synthetic substances — and step into a healthier, more authentic life.
