TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment said Thursday it is contacting local health and emergency departments in Kansas to raise awareness for an emerging public health issue.

Chief Medical Officer for KDHE, Dr. Greg Lakin, talked about this issue:

Surrounding states are reporting many emergency department visits related to excessive bleeding associated with the use of synthetic items such as “K2,” “spice,” “synthetic marijuana,” or “legal weed,” among other names.

These items are human-made, mind-altering chemicals that are sprayed onto dried, shredded plant material, which can then be smoked. They also may be sold as liquids to be vaporized and inhaled in e-cigarettes and other devices. They are sold for recreational drug use with claims they will provide the user with the effects of cannabis.

The public is warned not to use these types of products purchased in the last month. If someone has used any of these products and starts experiencing severe, unexplained bleeding or bruising, they should seek medical attention immediately.

Persons experiencing these severe issues should not drive. These individuals should also tell their healthcare providers about the possible link between their symptoms and synthetic drug use.