Hillsborough officials warn of rat poison in synthetic pot

Two people recently suffered potential life-threatening conditions after using synthetic marijuana that was laced with a type of rat poison, according to the Hillsborough County Health Department.

Two cases of "spice" being laced with brodifacoum, a type of rat poison, were identified in the county.

Health department officials warn against using any kind of synthetic marijuana because side effects can be unpredictable and, in some cases, life threatening.

Along with the two Hillsborough cases, at least five other instances of synthetic marijuana being laced with brodifacoum have been reported nationwide.

Symptoms of brodifacoum in the body can range from bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, vomiting blood, coughing up blood, blood in urine or stool, excessively heavy menstrual bleeding, back or flank pain, altered mental status, feeling faint or fainting, loss of consciousness or collapse.

Such products can be purchased in convenience stores or online as incense or natural herbal products. The Health Department warns anybody experiencing these symptoms to call 911 immediately.