40 people hospitalized in Florida for excessive bleeding caused by 'spice' drug

Dozens of Floridians have been hospitalized due to their use of a marijuana alternative.

More than 40 Florida residents in Hillsborough County have been hospitalized due to severe bleeding caused by the use of synthetic marijuana.

"We are closely monitoring this situation and working with public health agencies," said Florida Poison Control in a Monday statement. "Toxicologists and poison specialists are assisting hospitals in the treatment of these poisoned patients."

Synthetic marijuana refers to a multitude of illegal substances that "produce experiences similar to marijuana (cannabis) and that are marketed as 'safe,' legal alternatives to that drug," says the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The product is often sold under various names, including K2, fake weed, Yucatan Fire, and many others.

Synthetic marijuana was once sold in convenience stores and online but has been heavily restricted by the law, claims the NIDA.