Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2026

Color Spot Test As a Presumptive Tool for the Rapid Detection of Synthetic Cathinones
Published on: February 5, 2018
AKI associated with synthetic cannabinoids: a case series
Gautam Kantilal Bhanushali1, Gaurav Jain, Huma Fatima
1Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA.
Abstract:
SPICE, or K2, encompasses preparations of synthetic cannabinoids marketed as incense products, bath additives, and air fresheners and used for recreational purposes. These preparations are usually smoked for their cannabis-like effects and do not appear on routine urine toxicology screens. We report four cases of oliguric AKI associated with SPICE use in previously healthy men. All showed improvement in renal function without need for renal replacement therapy. Renal biopsy, performed in three of the patients, revealed acute tubular necrosis. The close temporal and geographic associations between the clinical presentation and the development of AKI strongly suggest an association between these SPICE preparations and AKI. Further investigations are required to identify the potential nephrotoxic agent(s). Nephrotoxicity from designer drugs should be included in the differential diagnosis of AKI, especially in young adults with negative urine drug screens.
Related Concept Videos
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Cannabinoids
Two synthetic agonists of THC,...
Combined Effects of Drugs: Synergism
Such synergistic combinations...
Drug Toxicity: Risk factors
Drug toxicity: Idiosyncratic Reactions
Physical Properties of Amines
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Potential Scenarios

