Interestingly, there were fewer calls to poison-control centers in 2012 and 2013 (2,691 and 996, respectively). The areas where these drugs are used have also seemed to expand; originally, most of the calls to poison-control centers came from Louisiana, Florida, and Kentucky but later came from 33 states. It can be difficult for a person to stop misusing certain substances, such as alcohol or illegal drugs. There are many different groups and institutions available that provide help and support to people experiencing substance misuse.

BetterHelp can connect you to an addiction and mental health counselor. Bath salts only have recreational purposes and have no recognized medical application. Their potency and recreational nature make them prone to misuse and abuse, often leading to addiction. Our representatives can answer your questions and guide you toward treatment in your area. Your call will be confidential, and you don’t have to commit to a program to learn more about treatment options. Call today and find out how we can help you towards a healthier, happier future.

The U.S. government passed the Synthetic Drug Abuse Prevention Act (SDAPA) in July 2012. This act listed mephedrone, methylone, and MDPV as Schedule I controlled substances. This is the most restrictive category of controlled substances.

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Toxic doses for the newer synthetic cathinones such as bath salts have not yet been determined9, and doses can be variable due to the illegal nature of the drug. There is a great risk for overdose because packages may contain up to 500 milligrams. The initial stage of principle of aa treatment manages the drug’s immediate side effects, including temperature regulation and aggression.

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You can have what is called “excited delirium.” If you have this, you will get dehydrated, your muscle tissue will begin to break down, and your kidneys may stop working. Snorting and injecting bath salts are the most dangerous methods. People who use the drug this way are more likely to overdose. Bath salts are sometimes used as a cheap substitute for stimulants like cocaine. Research shows that one common synthetic cathinone, called 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), is 10 times stronger than cocaine.

From a neurological perspective, long-term misuse of bath salts can lead adult children of alcoholics screening quiz to brain swelling. There are no approved medications that treat addiction to synthetic cathinones. In purest form, the drug is a light brown or white crystallized powder. It usually comes in plastic bags or foil labeled as bath salts, glass cleaner, or even plant food.

1. Bath salts (synthetic cathinones) look and feel a lot like Epsom salts.
2. It can be difficult for a person to stop misusing certain substances, such as alcohol or illegal drugs.
3. BetterHelp can connect you to an addiction and mental health counselor.

Research has shown that even short-term use of bath salts can lead to severe health complications. As the name implies, synthetic cathinones are artificially produced in a whats in whippits laboratory. In general, they mimic the naturally-occurring chemical found in the khat plant. Khat has been consumed in the Middle East for hundreds of years.

This is very important because of the dehydration bath salts cause. Drink plenty of water before and during your time on the drug. A person can take bath salts in various ways, such as snorting or smoking them. Bath salts are also available in tablet or capsule form, which can be taken orally. A person may also dissolve the bath salts into a solution to inject into their veins. Synthetic cathinones are similar to certain substances found in the khat plant.

Instead, it is the first step toward a comprehensive treatment plan. If you or someone you know has suicidal thoughts while using bath salts, call or text 988 (the national suicide hotline). Risks from using them include liver failure, mental illness, and even death. Bath salts are among a group called new psychoactive substances. They give you a “high” that affects how you see others and the world around you. Their effects are similar to the effects of amphetamine and ecstasy (MDMA).

The frequency that addictions to any drug, including bath salts, occur within some families seems to be higher than can be explained by the addictive environment of the family. Therefore, most substance-abuse professionals recognize a genetic aspect to the risk of this and other drug addictions. Mental health symptoms caused by bath salt use disorder include mood disorders like depression or anxiety.

Are Bath Salts Addictive?

Moreover, community involvement and support systems are crucial. Creating a supportive environment that fosters open communication and provides resources for those at risk can deter initial use and prevent the escalation to addiction. Medical detox typically includes evaluation, stabilization, and preparation for further treatment. Drug effects can include a short-term increase in energy and mood and acting strangely friendly to others.

Long-Term Health Consequences of Bath Salts Abuse

People sometimes refer to bath salts by numerous street names, such as bliss or meow meow. Research from 2020 states that low doses of bath salts can cause a person to feel euphoria and alertness. Containers of bath salts will also have warnings, such as “not suitable for human consumption.” Manufacturers do this in an attempt to avoid legal restrictions. Over time, this can lead to physical and psychological dependence as you seek the euphoric feeling the drug provides. Personalized treatment plans, tailored to individual needs, are essential for effective recovery.

These are administered to manage symptoms such as agitation and seizures and to provide sedation if necessary. It’s important to note that while these medications can alleviate withdrawal symptoms, they do not directly treat the addiction itself. Therapy and counseling are pivotal components in the treatment of bath salt addiction. A variety of therapeutic approaches are used to address the complex nature of this addiction. Here, medical supervision is key to safely managing withdrawal symptoms. This may be followed by inpatient therapy, where individuals can receive round-the-clock care and support.

Bath salts are part of a family of chemical compounds called synthetic cathinones. If a person is misusing bath salts or other substances, many groups and institutions can help them find support. If a person experiences any of these effects after taking bath salts or is with someone who does, they should seek immediate medical attention. A person experiencing bath salt toxicity may also show psychological signs, such as aggression, psychosis, or violence. When in this state, a person may be at risk of harming themselves or other people. Group counseling is another integral part of the recovery process.

Ideally, they offer a community of peers who understand the challenges of overcoming addiction. Understanding the risk factors for bath salt addiction is crucial for prevention and treatment. Bath salt addiction often comes with physical symptoms that may indicate misuse of this substance.