New York becomes tenth state to ban synthetic marijuana

Responding to concerns from local and federal pols, New York State on Thursday ordered a ban on the sale of synthetic marijuana.

The so-called fake pot -- which is often referred to by brand names like "Spice," "K2" or "Blaze" -- is smoked just like marijuana and contains cannabis-like chemicals. It can cause anxiety, hallucinations, seizures, paranoia and violent behavior.

State Health Commissioner Nirav Shah said stores must comply immediately with the order.

The substance is already illegal in nine states, and it was recently banned in Suffolk County. In Decemeber, Congress passed a bill prohibiting its sale, but the Senate has yet to approve it.