24 Apr 2026
Bristol’s Local Drug Information System (LDIS) has shared that spice purchased in Bristol over the last 2 weeks has resulted in one suspected death and multiple hospital admissions.
Spice is a generic name used to describe a group of drugs that contain synthetic cannabinoids. Spice was designed to mimic the effects of cannabis, but it can be anywhere from 5 to 100 times more potent than the chemical (known as THC) found in natural cannabis. This makes it a lot more harmful.
Vape liquid contaminated with spice is often a coloured liquid (red, green, blue, purple or pink). They can be of many different brands or be unlabelled. They are more likely to be a liquid added to a refillable vape rather than a disposable device.
Spice can cause your mood and perception to change, leading many users to become extremely confused or paranoid. Some become violent or self-harm while intoxicated. Other reactions include hallucinations, panic attacks, psychotic episodes, and death. Because spice is much stronger than natural cannabis, it is easier to experience its unpleasant and harmful effects.
Some more effects of Spice include:
Anxiety attacks.
Paranoia and delusions.
Seizures.
Confusion.
Violent behaviour.
Memory impairment.
Suicidal thoughts.
Poor coordination.
Insomnia and extreme fatigue.
Rapid heart rate.
High blood pressure.
Risk of death.
Kidney problems.
Nausea and/or vomiting.
Diarrhoea.
Mixing spice and alcohol can be very dangerous and lead to a greater risk of death from overdose or alcohol poisoning.
Spice is not an opioid, so naloxone will not reverse its effects. However, if you are concerned that spice has been mixed with other substances, naloxone should still be administered in a suspected overdose, as it can reverse the opioid component and may still save a life.
Share this alert with those who might use similar substances or work with those who do, and encourage them to seek help and advice.
Continue to provide harm minimisation to people who spice, such as:
Remember that spice is not the same as cannabis. It is more potent, more unpredictable and much more dangerous.
Be aware of the bottom of the bag. The crystalline powder material at the bottom of the bag is generally stronger than the plant material, so use a smaller dose.
Avoid using drugs on your own in case emergency action is needed.
Call for emergency medical help if you or anyone around you experiences any of the side effects listed above.
Ensure those who need to be are aware of the signs of overdose and the appropriate emergency response, including the use of naloxone where indicated. Report any unusual drug-related presentations or adverse reactions through local reporting channels. Stay alert and share this information.
Raising awareness can prevent harm and save lives.
