What is Bath Salts (Synthetic Cathinones)? Addiction, Abuse & Treatment

Synthetic Cathinones, also known as Bath Salts, are lab-made drugs similar to a natural stimulant called the Khat plant. This shrub is native to East Africa and southern Arabia and is often consumed for its stimulating effects.

Synthetic Cathinones are called “Bath Salts” because they resemble bath salts, which are crystallized powders immersed in baths. Individuals who abuse this drug may sniff, snort, or dilute and inject it to achieve their desired stimulating effects, similar to ecstasy but at a much lower cost. Understanding the origin and impact of Synthetic Cathinones can help combat addiction to this life-threatening illicit drug.

What Are Bath Salts (Synthetic Cathinones)?

Bath Salts are considered life-threatening due to their chemical composition and effects. They are also marketed misleadingly, leading to the deception of many individuals.

Chemical structure and classification of synthetic cathinones

The chemical structure of Synthetic Cathinones can vary, but the purpose of creating this artificial drug is to mimic the effects of methamphetamine, cocaine, and MDMA (Ecstasy). However, Bath Salts contain another set of harmful compounds, such as Mephedrone, MDPV, and Methylone.

Considered a psychoactive drug, Bath Salts alter the chemical function of the brain. The main components of Bath Salts include:

Mephedrone: A psychoactive drug that enhances a person’s feelings of acceptance and socialization. It was initially marketed as a research chemical or plant fertilizer.

MDPV: A drug under the Phenethylamine class that stimulates the central nervous system and produces hallucinogenic effects. It is reported to be more potent than cocaine.

Methylone: A psychostimulant that can increase heart rate, blood pressure, alter perception, and induce feelings of pleasure and euphoria.

These drugs can result in seizures and erratic behavior because they can overwhelm the brain. Additionally, these are highly addictive substances, and individuals who try to use them are incredibly prone to dependency.

Common misconceptions and deceptive marketing strategies.

Law enforcement reports and data show an increase in the use and availability of Synthetic Cathinones. Bath Salts are intentionally mislabeled or disguised to facilitate distribution without detection. Deceptive marketing strategies surrounding Bath Salts significantly impact accessibility and contribute to widespread use.

Here are common marketing strategies employed to promote Bath Salts:

Mislabeling: Bath Salts often come in misleading packages labeled as “plant food,” “jewelry cleaner,” or “research chemical.” The packaging typically features bright colors and cartoon or fun designs to minimize suspicion.

False Advertising: The packaging often includes the disclaimer “Not for Human Consumption,” leading people to believe it’s intended for purposes such as cleaning or aromatherapy. Sellers may also falsely present it as herbal or natural when, in fact, it is entirely composed of chemicals.

Easy Access: Bath Salts are sold in adult shops, independently owned convenience stores, skateboard shops, and online platforms, including auction sites. This makes the drug easily accessible with minimal regulation.

Downplaying Risks: Sellers may promote Bath Salts by emphasizing their euphoric effects while neglecting to mention the associated risks, such as seizures or negative behavioral effects, that come with taking synthetic drugs.

Claiming Legality: Some may assert that Bath Salts are legal alternatives to illicit drugs like cocaine or ecstasy, emphasizing their supposed natural or herbal origin.

It is crucial for individuals to be aware of these deceptive tactics and to approach any substance with caution. Seeking information from reliable sources and understanding the risks associated with synthetic cathinones is essential for personal safety and well-being.

Where Do Bath Salts Come From?

Synthetic Cathinones were first created in France in 1928-1929 for potential medical use. However, the manufacturing was unsuccessful due to its adverse effects and potential for dependency. In the 1930s to 1940s, Bath Salts were first abused as antidepressants. Fast forward to the 1990s, the drug started gaining traction in the United States. 

The ingredients for creating Bath Salts were proclaimed illegal between 2004 and 2008. In 2007, they started getting popular on online platforms among drug abusers, which led to the restrictions of their key ingredients in 2012. However, underground chemists found ways to change its components and marketed it deceptively as glass cleaners or plant food.

Bath Salts are an artificial copy of the Kath plant with natural stimulants called Cathinone. Synthetic Cathinones are created in secret drug labs to mimic the chemical structure and effects of the Kath plant. 

The production of Bath Salts is fueled by the desire of these sellers to create a cheaper alternative to popular illegal drugs such as cocaine and ecstasy. Since these drugs were not yet classified as controlled substances initially, manufacturers exploited the loopholes and continuously altered the chemical structure of Bath Salts to avoid legal issues.

How Do People Use Bath Salts?

People use Bath Salts in different ways, such as:

Oral ingestion: Bath salts are mixed in beverages to mask the taste or ingested orally in powder form.

Sniffing/ Snorting: A more common method is sniffing or snorting the powdered substance through the nose. This allows for quicker absorption.

Injection: Some individuals mix it with a solution and inject it directly for fast absorption through the bloodstream, which can produce intense effects.

Inhalation: Bath Salts are also heated and inhaled in rare cases. This method can cause additional risks.

Effects of Bath Salts

Using Bath Salts can produce harmful effects physically and psychologically, such as:

Physical effects:

• Increased heart rate
• High blood pressure
• High body temperature
• Enlarged pupils
• Weakness
• Muscle pain
• Sweating
• Headache
• Palpitations
• Teeth grinding
• Seizures

Psychological effects:

• Confusion
• Alertness
• Anger and violence
• Overly social
• Altered perception
• Euphoria
• Hallucination
• Delusions
• Paranoia

Can You Become Addicted To Bath Salts?

Bath Salts are addictive due to their stimulant properties. The synthetic cathinones in Bath Salts alter the chemical function of the central nervous system. It increases the release of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is responsible for feelings of pleasure, satisfaction, and motivation. 

Differentiating between physical dependency and psychological addiction.

Drug addiction is both physical and psychological. However, there’s a difference between the two. Physical dependence means the body has adapted to a substance, tolerating its effects. In the long run, the individual may need to take a higher dose to experience the desired effects of the drug. 

Psychological addiction is when a person becomes addicted to the rewards and benefits they can obtain from using a drug. People who use Synthetic Cathinones get addicted to the feelings of pleasure and euphoria they give. This causes cravings and dependency with long-term use. 

Who is most at-risk of abusing bath salts?

Since Bath Salts are marketed deceptively and are easily accessible, younger people are more prone to use them. The claim that it’s a cheaper alternative for illicit drugs such as cocaine and ecstasy makes it more appealing to young adults. 

Also, people who have a history of drug abuse may become interested in using Bath Salts. Some individuals like to experiment in mixing different drugs are also known as Polydrug abusers. Additionally, people with mental health problems may get worse if they use Bath Salts.

What are the signs of bath salt abuse?

Abusing Bath Salts may manifest in different ways. Here are the common signs of Bath Salt abuse:

Behavioral:

• Mood swings
• Aggression
• Isolation
• Impulsiveness
• Secretiveness
• Financial problems

Physical:

• Increased heart rate
• Enlarged pupils
• Excessive sweating
• Elevated body temperature
• Teeth grinding
• Sudden weight loss

Psychological:

• Euphoria
• Paranoia
• Hallucination
• Impaired perception
• Loss of touch of reality

The progression from casual use to addiction.

The addiction to Bath Salts does not happen overnight. It can start from a casual experimentation that will eventually lead to addiction. Here’s the progression from casual use to addiction:

1. Starting with experimentation, driven by peer pressure or curiosity.
2. Using during social settings for enjoyment or socialization.
3. More frequent use as tolerance develops.
4. Needing a higher dosage to experience the same effect.
5. Preoccupation with drug use.
6. Neglect of responsibilities due to usage preoccupation.
7. Problems with relationships and finances.
8. Inability to cut off drug use.
9. Prioritizing substance use over relationships, daily activities, and possible consequences.
10. Experiencing discomfort or withdrawal effect if not using the drug. 

Cravings and Withdrawal

An individual who is dependent on Bath Salts may experience withdrawal symptoms when they’re not using the drugs, such as:

• Uncontrolled drug cravings
• Tremors
• Irregular heartbeats
• Nuase and vomiting
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Sleep disturbance
• Lack of focus
• Depression

Overcoming addiction to Synthetic Cathinones is a complex journey that greatly benefits from seeking professional help. Engaging with healthcare professionals significantly increases the chances of successful recovery and long-term sobriety. Utilizing a combination of medications, structured treatment programs, and participation in support groups is essential for a comprehensive and effective recovery process.

Treatment for Bath Salts Abuse and Addiction

The treatment for Bath Salts Abuse and Addiction takes several steps:

Assessment: Assessment of the individual’s current drug use situation and identifying interventions that can help. 

Detoxification: Detoxification is often the first step, and it is crucial to have medical supervision to manage the potentially severe withdrawal symptoms associated with bath salts.

Supportive Care: Healthcare professionals can provide supportive care to alleviate discomfort and address physiological challenges during detox.

Behavioral Therapy: Therapy sessions are done to identify and change negative thinking and behavior toward drug use.

Counseling: One-on-one sessions to address underlying issues about substance abuse.

Support Groups: Participation in programs like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provides a supportive community of individuals facing similar challenges.

Family Involvement: Involving family members in the therapeutic process can help with communication, family dynamics, and creating a healing environment.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Certain drugs may be used to control cravings and symptoms associated with withdrawal, offering extra assistance as the patient recovers.

Aftercare Planning: Long-term recovery requires creating a plan for continued assistance, whether from sober living homes, support groups, outpatient counseling, or other services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bath Salts (Synthetic Cathinones) Addiction, Abuse and Treatment