Here in Colorado, it feels like we get associated with drugs quite a bit, maybe both unfairly and with some reason.

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Being that we were the first state to legalize recreational marijuana, the country sees it as a major calling card for many Coloradans, which it is not.

However, Colorado does have some pretty significant substance use issues, with WalletHub ranking the state as the fifth highest in that category. 

Plus, Coloradans use more cocaine than any other anywhere else in the United States. 

This association with drugs has led to the creation of a new drug that is being sold internationally that bears the same name as the state.

Apparently, it can have some pretty gnarly effects as well.

New Drug Called “Colorado” Taking Over Nigeria

Out in Nigeria, marijuana use is completely illegal, and the punishments for having or smoking it can be quite extreme.

For example, if you are in possession of cannabis or use it, according to The Conversation, you will get a prison sentence of no less than 15 years. 

Despite this, growing and selling cannabis in the country is extremely profitable and buying it comes at a high price.

So, people need to turn to alternatives to try to get the same experience at a more reasonable price. This is where synthetic cannabis comes into play. 

In the states, you’ve probably seen synthetics labeled under names like Spice or Scooby Snax, but in Nigeria, the most common name for them is “Colorado”.

In fact, according to the Colorado Sun, it’s so common that they have a term for someone who is high based on the name. If you see someone high on it, people say they are “On Colos”.

What Are the Adverse Effects of “Colorado” and Synthetic Cannabis

While in theory synthetic cannabis seems like a good way to get around weed laws, it’s definitely got some major side effects that are nothing like you’d get from smoking weed.

For example, “Colorado” has been linked to people seeing major hallucinations, having seizures, and mental health breakdowns. It has also been linked to a couple different deaths as well.

While they are legal in Nigeria, synthetic weed is illegal in Colorado. In fact, 40 different chemicals found in “Colorado” are illegal in the United States.

20 of the Wittiest Weed Store Names in Colorado

In no particular order, here are some of the most cleverly named marijuana dispensaries in Colorado.

Gallery Credit: Kelsey Nistel

Colorado’s Weed Research Laboratory is Absolutely Fascinating

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