Synthetic marijuana substances banned

The Indiana Board of Pharmacy passed rules Wednesday that ban four different types of compounds used in synthetic drugs like “K2” and “Spice."

Due to ease of access, Spice products rank second in illicit drug use by young people, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

“Synthetic drug abuse is a major concern to the Board of Pharmacy, and they are working hard to protect consumers from this threat,” Nicholas W. Rhoad, executive director of the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency, said in a press release.

“These harmful products can be lethal and are being marketed to and targeted at Indiana’s youth. We are collaborating with the authorities to quickly respond to these situations and make sure that these drugs aren’t available.”

The Indiana Board of Pharmacy is working with Indiana State Police to identify the substances found in synthetic drugs to allow for swift action, according to the release.

“The Board is squarely focused on protecting the health, safety and well-being of Hoosier families and children, and we are being vigilant in the oversight to remove access to these dangerous substances,” Rhoad said.