A troubling trend is emerging as young people in the UK increasingly turn to vaping with potentially dangerous substances. One teenager, known as Oscar, started using cannabis oil vapes at the age of 14 following a family tragedy. What he initially believed to be a harmless way to cope with grief became a struggle with addiction to a substance laced with Spice, a powerful synthetic cannabinoid.
Oscar, who had previously experimented with nicotine, sought solace in cannabis oil vapes after the death of his aunt. He observed his friends using these products, which contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis, and hoped to experience the same lightheartedness they exhibited. “I thought if everyone else is doing it, it can’t be that bad,” he stated. Unfortunately, he was unaware that the vapes he consumed were often mixed with Spice, a substance known for its unpredictability and severe side effects.
Spice, often referred to as the “zombie drug,” is significantly cheaper to produce than natural THC and mimics its effects. However, it can lead to hallucinations, depression, and even fatal consequences. According to Jon Findlay, National Harm Reduction Lead for the drug rehabilitation charity Waythrough, the unregulated nature of Spice makes it particularly dangerous. “The chemicals can vary, and how your body responds can differ from batch to batch,” he explained.
Oscar described the experience of using a Spice-laced vape as surreal, likening it to living in a virtual reality environment. “It felt like I wasn’t really here,” he recalled. The rapid onset of effects and their fleeting nature led him to use the product more frequently, inadvertently sparking a cycle of addiction.
As Oscar’s behaviour changed, his family grew concerned. He became withdrawn, often isolating himself in his room after using the substance. His parents eventually learned about his vaping habits and sought help through his school, which connected him with Waythrough’s support services. There, it was confirmed that he had been using Spice.
Oscar’s story reflects a broader issue affecting youth across the UK. A study by the University of Bath revealed that out of nearly 2,000 confiscated vapes and e-liquids from 114 schools, only 1% contained THC while a staggering 13% contained Spice. This figure rose to 25% in regions such as London and Lancashire. Professor Chris Pudney, who led the research, expressed concern over the severe health risks associated with Spice, noting incidents of cardiac arrest among users.
The availability of Spice-laced vapes is increasingly alarming, with social media platforms playing a significant role in its distribution. The University of Bath’s report highlighted a “widespread and overt market” for these products on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. A review of accounts selling THC revealed that 68% of products labeled as such on TikTok contained Spice.
In light of these findings, efforts are underway to combat the issue. Waythrough has launched a campaign in collaboration with Barnsley Recovery Steps and Barnsley Council aimed at informing young people about the dangers of adulterated vape products. Jon Findlay emphasized the importance of purchasing legitimate vapes from reputable retailers to avoid harmful substances.
Oscar’s journey to overcome his addiction was fraught with difficulties. He experienced intense withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety and insomnia, making it challenging to quit. “I didn’t want to eat, leave the house, shower – or do anything,” he shared, reflecting on the toll the addiction took on his life. With support from Waythrough’s rehabilitation services, he eventually managed to break free from the cycle of addiction at the age of 16.
The UK government has also recognized the urgency of addressing this issue, launching a new campaign aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of synthetic drug use among young people. This initiative includes a pledge of £310 million to enhance drug treatment services.
As the prevalence of Spice-laced vapes continues to rise, experts stress the need for improved drug education in schools. Oscar believes that early education on the risks of drug use is crucial. “At school, there were no real lessons about drugs,” he said, emphasizing that such knowledge could help younger students make informed choices.
Despite the challenges ahead, initiatives aimed at closing the gap in drug education and promoting safe practices are essential in safeguarding the health of young people across the UK and beyond.
