Statement from FDA warning about significant health risks of contaminated illegal synthetic cannabinoid products that are being encountered by FDA Statement from Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D.; Peter Marks, M.D., Ph.D., director, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research; and Janet Woodcock, M.D., director, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has become aware of reports of severe illnesses and deaths resulting from the use of synthetic cannabinoid (marijuana) products that have been contaminated with brodifacoum, a very long-acting anticoagulant commonly used in rat poison. These unapproved products are being sold in convenience stores and gas stations as substitutes for marijuana under names such as “K2” and “Spice.” Use of these illegal products pose significant public health concerns for both individuals who may use the contaminated products and the U.S. blood supply, as there is the potential for contamination of blood products donated by those individuals who have used these substances. Continue reading...