“Colos,” also known as “Colorado,” is a form of synthetic marijuana in Nigeria. Synthetic marijuana is a substance that resembles real marijuana but is distinct from it. However, the use of Colorado drugs presents serious dangers to the physical well-being of Nigerian youth.
Consuming Colorado drugs can lead to a rapid heart rate, elevated blood pressure, seizures, and even organ failure. The absence of proper regulation and quality assurance in the manufacturing of these substances increases the associated risks. Nigerian youth who engage in experimenting with Colorado drugs are exposing themselves to potential health complications that could be life-threatening.
Synthetic marijuana is designed to replicate the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active component in marijuana responsible for the “high” sensation. However, synthetic marijuana often produces effects beyond just the intended high.
These substances consist of legal chemicals that, when combined, can become highly potent. The specific components used in synthetic marijuana are frequently altered and unknown due to the ever-changing nature of their formulations.
How is Colos being abused?
Just like with natural marijuana, people who use Colorado often roll it into a joint before smoking. However, the Colorado joints are usually thinner than those made with natural marijuana.
The reason for this is that Colorado is consumed in tiny amounts to lessen its effects on individuals. Most Colorado users take only a puff or two to achieve the desired state of mind.
Interestingly, some individuals mix Colorado with natural marijuana in an attempt to “manage” or decrease the impact of the synthetic chemicals.
The effects of Colorado vary significantly from those of regular cannabis. Despite being marketed as a safe and legal way to experience a high, the effects of Colorado are far from safe.
Some of the observed effects of colos include:
- Extreme anxiety
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Increased heart rate
- Vomiting
These effects are almost immediate and typically manifest within 2–5 minutes after smoking.
Certain users of Colorado might also display violent behaviors and engage in actions they may not fully comprehend due to being under its influence.
In certain situations, a user might become unconscious and require revival through crude methods, such as dousing them with water or attempting to wake them by hitting them. The best action to take when someone loses consciousness after smoking synthetic cannabis is to get them to a hospital.
It’s essential to note that these effects are experienced by a significant portion of individuals who use the drug, including experienced users. This is mainly because accurately measuring the dosage of Colorado is challenging, leading to a higher likelihood of overdosing.
Psychotic Breaks
In countries like the United States, there have been documented cases of psychotic breaks resulting from smoking colos. These episodes can be short-lived, wearing off within a few hours or a couple of days. However, they can also be more prolonged and necessitate effective psychiatric assistance to recover and return to normalcy.
In Nigeria, there might not be official reports of psychosis resulting from synthetic cannabis due to differing perspectives on drugs. Nevertheless, personal stories echo similar experiences and highlight how smoking cannabis can have detrimental effects on mental health.
Death
Tragically, there have been instances of deaths attributed to synthetic cannabis. The exact mechanism behind these deaths remains unknown, although one of the various chemicals present in Colorado could be a contributing factor. Deaths have also occurred due to the actions taken by individuals while under the influence.
Is Colos Legal?
In Nigeria, synthetic cannabis is considered a prohibited substance, much like regular cannabis. It’s often sold by individuals who also deal in regular cannabis, as well as other banned substances like crack and crystal meth. Possessing synthetic cannabis is a federal offense that could result in severe penalties.
Caution
The only foolproof way to avoid encountering colos is to completely steer clear of using it. This means refraining from purchasing it and declining any invitations to use it.
If you or someone you know unintentionally consumes colos, seeking medical assistance is strongly recommended.
Conclusion
The well-known street term “colos” in Nigeria actually refers to Colorado, a form of synthetic marijuana. The adverse effects of Colos are hazardous and unsafe. Moreover, it’s outlawed in numerous countries and can pose serious risks to mental health.
