What are “bath salts”?
“Bath salts” are “designer drugs” most commonly known as MDPV, mephedrone, or methylone. They are powerful drugs of abuse that may cause severe side effects. They may also be called “plant food” or “research chemicals”. These are not the products that are commonly sold for bathing from bath and beauty retailers.
How are “bath salts” packaged?
“Bath salts” are sold as crystals, powders, and liquids with a variety of names including, but not limited to, Bliss, Blue Light, Charge, Cosmic Blast, Cloud 9, Ivory Snow, Ocean Burst, Purple Wave, Snow Leopard, Tranquility Bath Salts, White Dove, White Rush, Zoom 2, Vanilla Sky, Energy 1, Magic, Aura, Red Dove, and Zeus 2.
What do “bath salts” contain?
They contain chemicals similar to stimulant drugs that are listed as Schedule I controlled substances in New York State. Schedule I controlled drugs are the most highly restricted drugs in New York. Examples of Schedule I controlled substances include heroin and LSD.
What are the dangerous effects of “bath salts” abuse?
Signs and symptoms of abuse are stimulant effects similar to those caused by cocaine and amphetamines, including but not limited to increased heart rate and blood pressure, hallucinations, paranoia, suicidal thoughts, violent behavior and vomiting. Use of “bath salts” has also been linked to death.
What is the legal status of “bath salts” in New York State?
Effective May 20, 2011, these compounds are prohibited from sale and distribution pursuant to an Order for Summary Action signed by the Commissioner of Health. Any individual or entity that receives notice of the Order will be prohibited from selling or distributing products containing these compounds.
Who is abusing “bath salts”?
Reports to New York Poison Control Centers indicate use in the 18 year old – 48 year old age range, but primarily in the early 20s.
How big is the problem?
Nationwide, calls to Poison Control Centers regarding instances of poisoning from products containing “bath salts” through May of 2011 has increased more than 700 percent from the total amount of calls taken in all of 2010.
Why the concern?
Use of these chemicals has resulted in violent reactions, hospitalizations and death. Use of “bath salts” has also been linked to suicide.
How may I contact the Poison Control Center?
The Poison Control Center can be reached at (800) 222-1222.
Information provided by the New York State Department of Health |
