Synthetic Drugs in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Synthetic drugs – also called new psychoactive substances (NPS) – are man‑made chemicals designed to mimic the effects of well‑known illicit drugs like cannabis, cocaine, MDMA, or LSD. They are often sold in gas stations, vape shops, smoke shops, or online, including to people in Grand Rapids and West Michigan.

These substances may be marketed as:

  • “Legal highs”
  • “Herbal incense”
  • “Bath salts”
  • “Research chemicals”
  • “Not for human consumption”

Despite this marketing, synthetic drugs are not safe and are often illegal in Michigan.

How Synthetic Drugs Work

Manufacturers of synthetic drugs frequently change the chemical structure of these substances to:

  • Avoid detection on standard drug tests
  • Stay ahead of drug laws and regulations
  • Market them as “new,” “legal,” or “safer” alternatives

Because these chemicals are constantly changing:

  • There is no consistent formula
  • There is no quality control
  • Effects are unpredictable and potentially life‑threatening

This is a growing concern for emergency departments at Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health) in Grand Rapids, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, and Mercy Health.

No Safe Dose – And No Reliable Label

Packets, capsules, and powders rarely include accurate dosing information. Even when they do, it is not medically reliable.

Two packets from the same batch can affect you differently

Because synthetic drugs are not regulated:

  • The chemical content can vary from one packet to the next
  • Even two packets from the same batch can produce completely different effects
  • You cannot know what you are taking, how strong it is, or how your body will react

For people in Grand Rapids, this means that a product bought locally or online one week may be much more dangerous the next, even if it looks the same.

Common Types of Synthetic Drugs (NPS)

Synthetic drugs available in the United States – and sometimes seen in Kent County emergency rooms – include:

  • Synthetic cannabinoids (often called “synthetic cannabis,” “Spice,” “K2”)
  • Phenethylamines (a group that includes some stimulants and hallucinogens)
  • Synthetic cathinones (often sold as “bath salts,” “monkey dust”)
  • Tryptamines (psychedelic compounds)
  • Piperazines (stimulant‑type drugs sometimes sold as MDMA)
  • Novel benzodiazepines (sold as “legal benzos” or “research chemicals”)

Many of these are sold as powders, pills, capsules, herbal mixtures, or blotter papers.

Synthetic Cannabinoids (“Synthetic Cannabis”)

What are synthetic cannabinoids?

Synthetic cannabinoids are chemicals designed to act on the same brain receptors as THC, the active ingredient in cannabis. However:

  • They are not natural cannabis
  • Some are much stronger and more dangerous than THC
  • Newer versions may not mimic THC at all and can cause severe toxicity

How they are sold and used

In and around Grand Rapids, synthetic cannabinoids may be sold as:

  • “Spice”
  • “K2”
  • “Herbal incense”
  • “Potpourri”
  • Brand names like “Kronic,” “Northern Lights,” “Mojo,” “Blue Lotus,” or “Godfather”

They typically:

  • Contain dried plant material sprayed with synthetic chemicals
  • Are sold in colorful foil packets or small bags
  • Are usually smoked, vaped, or sometimes brewed as a tea

Even when the branding and colors look identical, the actual chemicals inside can be very different.

Effects of synthetic cannabinoids

Some effects may feel similar to cannabis, such as:

  • Euphoria
  • Feelings of wellbeing
  • Relaxation or a quiet, reflective mood
  • Spontaneous laughter or excitement
  • Increased appetite
  • Dry mouth

However, synthetic cannabinoids have been reported to cause more serious side effects than natural cannabis, including in young people and college students in Grand Rapids.

Toxic effects of synthetic cannabinoids

Reports from across the U.S. – and cases seen in Michigan emergency departments – describe:

  • Rapid heart rate and rapid breathing (tachypnea)
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Heart palpitations
  • Chest pain
  • Severe nausea and vomiting
  • Kidney problems
  • Confusion and disorientation
  • Psychosis (hallucinations, paranoia, delusions)
  • Seizures
  • Stroke
  • In rare cases, death

Because West Michigan has cold winters and long indoor seasons, some people may experiment with these substances at indoor gatherings or parties, increasing risk of overdose and emergency visits.

Other Major Categories of Synthetic Drugs

Phenethylamines

Phenethylamines are a broad group of psychoactive drugs that include:

  • Stimulants (similar to amphetamines)
  • Synthetic hallucinogens

Some phenethylamines (including certain NBOMe compounds) are:

  • Sold on blotter paper similar to LSD
  • Also available as pills or powders
  • Sometimes mis‑sold as LSD or MDMA

Their appearance and effects can mask other psychedelics, making it hard to know what you actually took.

Synthetic cathinones (“Bath Salts”)

Synthetic cathinones are stimulants related to the natural khat plant. They:

  • Speed up communication between the brain and body
  • Can cause intense stimulation, agitation, and paranoia

They often appear as:

  • White or brown powders
  • Small, chunky crystals
  • Capsules or tablets

They may be sold as:

  • “Bath salts”
  • “Plant fertilizer”
  • “Research chemicals”

Many products contain chemicals like MDPV, which can be active at very low doses, so they are often mixed with fillers. This makes dosing extremely unpredictable and increases the risk of overdose and toxic reactions.

Tryptamines

Tryptamines are psychedelic substances found naturally in some plants, fungi, and animals (for example, DMT and psilocybin). Synthetic versions are:

  • Often stronger
  • Less studied
  • Sometimes sold online as “research chemicals”

They can cause intense hallucinations, altered perception, and psychological distress, especially in unfamiliar or unsafe environments.

Piperazines

Piperazines mimic some of the effects of MDMA and other stimulants. They are:

  • Often sold as “party pills” or “legal ecstasy”
  • Available as pills, capsules, or powders
  • Sometimes mis‑sold as MDMA

Common piperazines include:

  • 1‑benzylpiperazine (BZP)
  • Trifluoromethylphenylpiperazine (TFMPP)

When combined, BZP and TFMPP can produce effects similar to MDMA, but with unpredictable side effects, including anxiety, nausea, and heart problems.

Novel benzodiazepines

Novel benzodiazepines are:

  • Chemicals that were tested but never approved as medicines
  • Or newly created substances with structures different from prescription benzodiazepines (like Xanax or Valium)

They are sometimes sold as:

  • “Legal benzodiazepines”
  • “Research chemicals”
  • Fake versions of prescription anti‑anxiety or sleep medications

Because they are poorly studied:

  • Their potency is unknown
  • Overdose risk is high
  • Mixing them with alcohol, opioids, or other sedatives can be life‑threatening

Harmful Effects of Synthetic Drugs (NPS)

Synthetic drugs can affect both physical and mental health. Reported harms include:

  • Emotional fragility and mood swings
  • Reduced concentration and cognitive ability
  • Muscle pain or a sore jaw
  • Loss of appetite
  • Days of hallucinations or altered perception
  • Acute agitation, restlessness, or aggression
  • Paranoia and suspiciousness
  • Heart problems and chest pain
  • Headaches
  • Suicidal thoughts or self‑harm risk

In Grand Rapids, people using synthetic drugs may present to:

  • Local ERs (Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, Mercy Health)
  • Urgent care centers
  • Primary care clinics and mental health providers

Dependence, Tolerance, and Withdrawal

Using synthetic drugs regularly can lead to:

  • Tolerance – needing more of the drug to get the same effect
  • Dependence – feeling unable to function “normally” without the drug
  • Withdrawal – unpleasant physical and psychological symptoms when you stop

Withdrawal symptoms vary from person to person and depend on:

  • Which drug(s) you used
  • How long and how often you used
  • Your age and general physical health
  • Your mental health and stress level
  • Whether you stop suddenly or gradually (method of withdrawal)

Withdrawal from synthetic cannabinoids

Reported symptoms include:

  • Insomnia and sleep problems
  • Paranoia
  • Panic attacks
  • Agitation and irritability
  • Anxiety
  • Mood swings
  • Rapid heartbeat

Withdrawal from synthetic cathinones

There is limited data, but people report:

  • Strong cravings and desire to redose
  • Fatigue and low mood
  • Anxiety and irritability
  • Sleep disturbances

Withdrawal from novel benzodiazepines

Stopping suddenly can be dangerous. Possible symptoms include:

  • Headaches
  • Aching or twitching muscles
  • Dizziness and tremors
  • Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain
  • Bizarre dreams and difficulty sleeping
  • Fatigue and poor concentration
  • Anxiety and irritability
  • Altered perception or heightened senses
  • Delusions, hallucinations, or paranoia
  • Seizures (a medical emergency)

If you are in Grand Rapids and think you are dependent on synthetic benzodiazepines or other sedatives, do not stop suddenly without medical advice. Talk to a doctor or addiction specialist first.

Seasonal and Local Considerations in Grand Rapids

Living in West Michigan can influence substance use patterns:

  • Long, cold winters and reduced daylight can worsen depression or anxiety, which may lead some people to experiment with drugs.
  • Indoor social events, college parties, and music festivals can increase exposure to synthetic drugs marketed as “party pills” or “legal highs.”
  • Access to substances via online vendors makes it easy for synthetic drugs to reach Grand Rapids, even if they are not openly sold in local shops.

Because many synthetic drugs are not detected on standard urine drug screens, it can be difficult for healthcare providers to know exactly what was used. This makes it even more important to seek prompt medical care if you or someone else has a bad reaction.

Synthetic Drugs and the Law in Michigan

Michigan has laws that:

  • Prohibit many synthetic cannabinoids, cathinones, and other NPS
  • Allow authorities to target substances based on their psychoactive effects, even if the exact chemical is new

Producing, selling, or promoting synthetic drugs in Michigan can lead to:

  • Fines
  • Criminal charges
  • Possible jail or prison time

Just because a product is sold in a store or online, or labeled as “legal,” does not mean it is actually legal or safe.

Where to Get Help in Grand Rapids, MI

If you or someone you know is using synthetic drugs, feels unable to stop, or is having a bad reaction, help is available in Grand Rapids and Kent County.

In an emergency

  • Call 911 immediately if someone has:
    • Trouble breathing
    • Chest pain
    • Seizures
    • Sudden confusion or unconsciousness
    • Signs of stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty)
    • Severe agitation, hallucinations, or suicidal thoughts

You can also go to the nearest emergency department, such as:

  • Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital (Downtown Grand Rapids)
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
  • Mercy Health facilities in the Grand Rapids area

Local medical and public health resources

  • Your primary care provider or GP
    Ask about substance use confidentially; they can refer you to local addiction specialists or mental health services.

  • Pharmacist
    Local pharmacists in Grand Rapids can provide information about drug interactions, side effects, and where to seek help.

  • Kent County Health Department
    Offers public health information, mental health and substance use referrals, and local resource guides.
    Website: search “Kent County Health Department substance use” for current programs.

  • Grand Rapids Public Health and community clinics
    Community health centers and behavioral health providers can offer counselling and treatment options, often on a sliding‑fee scale.

Addiction and mental health support

Look for these types of services in the Grand Rapids / West Michigan area:

  • Substance use disorder treatment programs (inpatient and outpatient)
  • Medication‑assisted treatment (MAT) clinics
  • Counseling and psychotherapy (including trauma‑informed care)
  • Peer support groups, such as:
    • Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
    • SMART Recovery
    • Other local recovery groups

Many organizations in Grand Rapids provide telehealth counseling, which can be especially helpful during winter months or for people with transportation barriers.

Key Points About Synthetic Drugs in Grand Rapids

  • Synthetic drugs (NPS) are man‑made chemicals designed to mimic drugs like cannabis, cocaine, MDMA, and LSD.
  • They are unregulated, with no quality control, and the same brand can contain different chemicals from one packet to the next.
  • Common categories include synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic cathinones, phenethylamines, tryptamines, piperazines, and novel benzodiazepines.
  • Synthetic drugs can cause serious health problems, including heart issues, kidney damage, psychosis, seizures, and sometimes death.
  • Withdrawal symptoms are different for everyone and can include insomnia, anxiety, paranoia, rapid heartbeat, headaches, and in some cases seizures.
  • Many synthetic drugs are illegal in Michigan, and selling or promoting them can result in fines and criminal charges.
  • People in Grand Rapids, MI can access help through local hospitals, primary care providers, the Kent County Health Department, community mental health services, and addiction treatment programs.

If you are worried about your own use or someone else’s, reaching out early to a healthcare professional in Grand Rapids can prevent serious harm and support long‑term recovery.