The U.S. government moved on Friday to essentially prohibit the sale or distribution of three synthetic forms of marijuana , also known as `` fake pot . '' The Drug Enforcement Administration ( DEA ) issued a legal notice classifying the substances as Schedule 1 drugs . It said they are popular on the street and represent a serious public health issue . The Justice Department , working with federal health officials , has determined the substances , with street names like Spice and K2 , have resulted in many visits to emergency rooms or calls to poison control centers . Teen narrowly escapes death after smoking synthetic marijuana . The most common reactions are vomiting , anxiety , hallucinations , seizures , high blood pressure , or loss of consciousness , the DEA said . Officials say nearly all the synthetic marijuana mixtures are imported from Asia — mostly China and India . Five other forms of `` fake pot '' were banned two years ago , authorities said . The posting of the notice on Friday means the prohibition can take effect within 30 days .
Drug Enforcement Administration and Justice Department take action . The DEA has been criticized for its aggressive tactics in fighting the drug trade. Officials say substances with names like Spice and K2 represent serious health concern . Their use has resulted in many health emergencies , officials said .