Over the Christmas festival period, here in Co. Tipperary, three teenagers have been reported as hospitalised, having eaten jellies containing synthetic cannabinoids.
We understand that two of the teenagers became seriously ill after consuming this product; packaged as “Jolly Rancher Jellies” and sold as Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) edibles.
Question: So what are Synthetic Cannabinoids?
Answer: Chemicals designed to act like the main psychoactive chemical in cannabis, and also called Amsterdam Gold; Annihilation; Black Mamba; Blue Cheese; Bombay Blue Extreme; X; Clockwork Orange; Devil’s Weed; Ecsess; Exodus Damnation; K2; Mary Joy; Spice; and Tai High Hawaiian Haze.
The effects of consuming Synthetic Cannabinoids are similar to smoking cannabis but stronger. Side effects can include:- known associated death; acute kidney injury; nausea, vomiting and mood swings; sweating and tingly feelings in fingers and toes; loss of muscle coordination; a worsening of mental health; a triggering of psychotic episodes which can last for weeks; memory problems, and dependence on the use of synthetic cannabinoids, if used regularly.
As we stated yesterday, a search by Gardaí of a house in the Clonmel area of Tipperary on New Year’s Eve resulted in the seizure of a large quantity of suspected cannabis-infused edibles; including cash and vape oil.
The seized products have now been submitted to Forensic Science Ireland for further analysis and Gardaí are advising the public to seek immediate medical attention if others have consumed such products and are feeling unwell.
A Garda spokesperson has confirmed that a criminal investigation into this seizure is ongoing.
Gardaí are also appealing to anyone with information relating to this seizure, to contact them at Clonmel Garda Station, Tel. No: 052 617 7640, the Garda Confidential Line Tel: 1800 666 111 or indeed any Garda Station.
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