2 people recently hospitalized from using 'spice' have died in the Tampa Bay region

Following an "outbreak" of 41 people reporting severe bleeding from using a synthetic cannabinoid, also known as "spice," two people have died, Poison Control Director Alfred Alegaus confirmed Tuesday.

It was reported Monday that fewer than 40 people were hospitalized over the last few days with bleeding after using "spice" purchased in the Tampa Bay area, according to a news release from the Florida Poison Information Center.

Aleguas, the co-managing director of the program, on Monday said tests show some of the spice consumed was contaminated with an ingredient once used to kill rats.

"So the commonality is that they are admitting to smoking 'spice,' or synthetic cannabinoids, and we've had laboratory confirmation that at least some of the samples we sent out are contaminated with rodenticide," Aleguas said earlier this week.

[amberlaughlin]

Outbreak alert for two whole people that died from a "drug"? Hmm... Maybe a lot more going on than they'd rather say. Never heard of anyone bleeding from their eyes and throwing up blood from a drug. But what do I know?