Retail substances found in vape shops, smoke shops, gas stations, convenience stores, and sold online have many risks that are often unknown to consumers. The Center for Disease Control (CDC), Federal Drug Administration (FDA), and public health officials strongly warn against taking these unregulated herbal supplements and synthetic substances.

 

 

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These products often contain dangerous, highly addictive, or unlisted ingredients that are linked to severe poisonings, dependence, severe withdrawal symptoms, and even death.

 

 

Common Forms and Use

 

 

• DELTA 8, DELTA 9, and THC-O – Cannabinoids from hemp with varying potency. Seen as gummies and other edible products, drinks, vapes, oils, and pills.  
• Kratom and 7-OH – Sold as powders, pills, and drinks in a variety of strains and colors.  
• Psychedelic mushrooms (magic mushrooms) are sold as fresh mushrooms, dried mushrooms, edible products, oils, pills, liquids, or resins. 

 

 

Did You Know?

 

 

Unregulated products are often flagged for containing hidden prescription drugs and illicit drugs, toxic metals, mold, yeast, and bacteria. 

 

 

These unregulated products are dangerous for anyone taking them, but especially for those who are pregnant, as they can negatively impact the mother’s and baby’s health.  

 

 

Use may result in a positive drug test, even if the product is marketed as legal hemp. 

 

 

When someone takes Delta 8, Delta 9 or THC-O, they may not feel the effects immediately. This delay can lead to people taking more than intended, which increases the risk for over consumption and serious medical emergencies. 

 

 

Psychedelic mushrooms can cause recurring hallucinations like flashbacks that stay with a person after use. 

 

 

Signs of Use

 

 

• Changes in appetite and weight 
• Changes in mood or increased irritability and irritation  
• Memory problems 
• Issues sleeping or Drowsiness  
• Stomach problems (nausea, vomiting, constipation) 

 

 

What’s the Danger?

 

 

These unregulated products may cause heart problems, liver damage, and seizures. 

 

 

They may cause depression, anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations. Those with existing mental health challenges are at higher risks of severe complications.   

 

 

They may impair judgment, coordination, memory, and reaction time. This is especially dangerous for those driving.  

 

 

They are highly toxic, unpredictable, and can be life threatening. 

 

 

 

 

Industry and Marketing Tactics

 

 

Many are marketed as legal, natural, herbal, or safer alternatives. 

 

 

These products are sold using legal loopholes and are not regulated; they are often mislabeled, contain different substances, or vary in strength.  

 

 

Many products will have similar names to everyday products and be packaged in ways that look like candy, snacks, or beverages, which makes it hard to tell which product is which, increasing the risk of accidental poisoning among children and pets.

 

 

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Avoid using unregulated substances. Talk with a healthcare provider before taking any supplement or substance. If someone experiences severe symptoms after using a substance, call 911 or contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. 

 

 

 

Common Forms and Use

 

 

• DELTA 8, DELTA 9, and THC-O – Cannabinoids from hemp with varying potency. Seen as gummies and other edible products, drinks, vapes, oils, and pills.

 

 

• Kratom and 7-OH – Sold as powders, pills, and drinks in a variety of strains and colors.

 

 

• Psychedelic mushrooms (magic mushrooms) are sold as fresh mushrooms, dried mushrooms, edible products, oils, pills, liquids, or resins.