Bath salts are a group of synthetic cathinones, which are human-made stimulants chemically related to cathinone, a substance found in the khat plant. They are often marketed as “bath salts,” “research chemicals,” “plant food,” “glass cleaner,” and labeled “not for human consumption,” in order to circumvent application of the Controlled Substance Analogue Enforcement Act. Bath salts are not a hygiene product used for bathing, as the name might imply, but are dangerous synthetic cathinones.
Ingredients or materials Bath salts contain different amphetamine-like substances like MDPV or methylenedioxypyrovalerone, pyrovalerone, and mephedrone. Mephedrone poses the highest risk for overdose. These drugs are stimulants and are often touted as cheap substitutes for cocaine. The white powder, granules, or crystals often resemble Epsom salts, but differ chemically). The drugs packaging often states "not for human consumption" in an attempt to circumvent drug prohibition laws).
Positive effects Bath salts are abused for their desired effects, such as euphoria and alertness. They set off intense cravings likened to those experienced by methamphetamine users.
Negative effects Bath salts can lead to serious, and even fatal adverse reactions. The drug effect is a high or "rush" that is similar to methamphetamine (speed) . People who use synthetic cathinones regularly may develop stimulant use disorder. The adverse or toxic effects include rapid heartbeat, hypertension, hyperthermia, prolonged dilation of the pupil of the eye, confusion, acute psychosis, agitation, combativeness, aggression, violent and self-destructive behavior, paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions. Reports of death from individuals abusing drugs in this class indicate the seriousness of the risk users are taking when ingesting these products.
In conclusion, bath salts are a group of synthetic cathinones that are often marketed as “bath salts,” “research chemicals,” “plant food,” “glass cleaner,” and labeled “not for human consumption,” in order to circumvent application of the Controlled Substance Analogue Enforcement Act. They are highly addictive and can lead to serious, and even fatal adverse reactions.
