Schoolkids Vaping 'Spice' from Snapchat: The £10 Danger Sold as THC

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Kids as young as 13 are buying what they think are THC vapes on social media, but actually contain "spice" - a dangerous synthetic drug linked to seizures and hospitalization.

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University of Bath researchers tested 1,923 vapes confiscated in UK schools and found a shocking truth: 13% contained synthetic cannabinoids, with rates approaching 25% in London and Lancashire.

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These dangerous vapes sell for just £10 through Snapchat, TikTok and Instagram accounts that deliver directly to teens, often within hours of contact.

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Lab tests revealed these products contain synthetic compounds MDMB-4en-PINACA and 5F-MDMB-PICA rather than the THC they're advertised as.

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We found that 68% of products marketed as containing THC on platforms popular with younger people actually contained spice," warns Professor Chris Pudney from the University of Bath.

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Multiple teenagers have been hospitalized after using what they thought were THC vapes purchased through social media platforms.

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Unlike cannabis, synthetic cannabinoids can trigger life-threatening reactions including breathing problems, chest pain, seizures, confusion and unconsciousness.

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What happens if you suspect exposure? Keep the device for testing, document when and where it was obtained, contact healthcare providers if symptoms appear.

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WEDINOS, a drug testing service run by Public Health Wales, reported that 41% of submitted THC/CBD vapes contained synthetic cannabinoids between April 2023-March 2024.

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Both THC and synthetic cannabinoids are controlled substances under UK law, with the Online Safety Act 2023 placing duties on platforms to mitigate illegal content risks.

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Despite social media platforms claiming to prohibit drug sales, University of Bath researchers found accounts removed for selling drugs quickly reappear under new names.

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Parents should watch for sudden behavior changes, confusion, anxiety or physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat - and be aware these vapes are being delivered directly to schools, parks and homes.

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