Emojis are being used across the nation to market, sell and buy drugs, according to the Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center.

The ONIC released a statement alerting parents that the use of certain emojis on social media and through electronic communications can indicate possible drug activity.

A PDF provided by the ONIC is available online and details several of the emojis being used to represent the physical, psychological and physiological characteristics of the drugs. 

Several emojis can be used to refer to the same drug. For example, cocaine is being referred to using 11 emojis including the snowman and snowflake. Marijuana is being represented by 17 different emojis including the palm tree and four leaf clover.

The same emojis can be used without referring to any drugs. Cynthia Peterman, ONIC Executive Director, says parents who notice their child using these emojis should look for signs of drug abuse or withdrawal alongside the use of these emojis.

"The use of emojis in this manner is a nationwide trend, and our analysts are seeing it here in Ohio as they analyze electronic devices seized in ongoing drug investigations," said Peterman. "Although use of these emojis is most often harmless, it's important that parents keep this alert in mind, especially if their child is showing other signs of withdrawal or drug abuse."

To report a drug tip to ONIC, please call 1-833-OHIO-NIC (644-6642).