Bath salts are designer drugs, popular among recreational users. They are sold in the form of white powders, and they are similar to Epsom salts but differ in chemical composition. The reason for their use is unclear, but some studies have found that bath salts are highly addictive. Abuse is increasing, especially in New York City, and some states have strict regulations regarding bath salt use.
Abuse of bath salts
If you suspect that someone you know is abusing bath salts, you should seek help immediately. Abuse of this substance can be extremely dangerous. The first step to recovery is admitting that you have a problem. Some people may try to hide their abuse by lying about the drugs they take. However, the more you know, the sooner you can help them recover.
People who abuse bath salts often do so unknowingly and for a variety of reasons. In June 2011 alone, there were 743 calls to poison control centers due to bath salt abuse. By June 2012, this number had dropped to 415. These statistics are troubling and highlight the potential dangers of this substance.
Bath salts are an overdose hazard. The chemicals they contain can cause permanent damage to the brain. Bath salts can interfere with the natural production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for making people feel happy and fulfilled. However, continued use of bath salts can reduce the amount of dopamine in the brain, making people need to consume more of the drug to feel normal.
Bath salts are addictive. They can lead to physical, mental, and emotional dependence. The symptoms of addiction start with subtle cravings and progress to full-fledged chemical dependence. Abuse of bath salts can lead to serious health problems, including depression, heart disease, and seizures. It can even cause a person to experience hallucinations, paranoia, or schizophrenia.
Behavioral therapy is an effective tool to treat bath salts addiction. Rehab centers usually implement cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement therapy. Therapies involving these methods may be individualized and involve group and individual sessions. Ultimately, a full recovery will be achieved only when the underlying problems and triggers are addressed.
Depending on the severity of the addiction, the patient may need inpatient treatment to overcome the addiction. The patient will be monitored for relapse and will need help dealing with the physical symptoms of withdrawal. This detox process is typically carried out by medical professionals in an inpatient or hospital setting, and will include medication that reduces withdrawal symptoms and frequent medical assessments.
In 2014, the American Association of Poison Control Centers received 587 reports related to bath salt abuse. Treatment for this disorder is available in many locations nationwide, and can result in a new life with a new, healthier outlook. Moreover, you can benefit from a life-changing recovery program offered by American Addiction Centers.
Bath salts are psychoactive and can be very dangerous if used excessively. It can alter a person’s cognitive and attention abilities, and cause seizures and heart attacks. There have even been fatalities caused by bath salt abuse. There are also several risks involved with chronic bath salt use, including developing a physical dependence.
Several psychoactive substances recently sold as bath salts have been placed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. As such, pharmacists can play a vital role in educating the public about the dangers of these substances and help prevent their misuse. They can also offer community outreach programs to raise awareness about this epidemic.
Common additives to bath salts
Bath salts are made from various substances including salts, oils, and fragrances. The main ingredients of bath salts are magnesium sulfate and sodium bicarbonate. Many bath salts also include glycerin, a skin-softening agent. Bath salts can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred.
Many health experts recommend taking magnesium-rich bath salts, as magnesium deficiency has been linked to a high rate of heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, chronic fatigue, and digestive ailments. Since magnesium is easily absorbed by our bodies, bath salts provide a convenient way to get the mineral. They also aid in relaxing the body, easing tensions, and improving blood flow.
MDPV is not on any state or federal controlled substance schedule, but is similar to a number of drugs used to treat anaphylaxis and depression. However, drug manufacturers can make new compounds with similar or unique properties if a synthetic cathinone is banned. Although federal law bans three common additives in bath salts, it does not prevent the sale of other products containing similar chemicals.
In addition to MDPV, bath salts can contain other additives that can lead to psychedelic or psychoactive effects. The synthetic drug MDPV has a similar effect to cocaine and amphetamines, and can be highly addictive. The withdrawal symptoms from bath salts depend on the type of drug, but they are similar to those from other substances.
The recent rise in the use of bath salts is alarming. EMS providers in many parts of the country are increasingly seeing patients who have consumed them. While the FDA and state governments are trying to curb bath salt use, the problem will continue to plague EMS providers. The latest findings suggest that preventing the misuse of bath salts could save lives.
The additives in bath salts have been known to cause various health effects. Some of these substances increase specific gravity of water, while others increase buoyancy. Flotation therapy is often performed with high concentrations of these substances. However, bath salts are not without side effects and abuse is common. There have been many reports of patients presenting to emergency rooms with PABS overdoses.
The effects of bath salts on the human body vary, but the main risk is the increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Some people experience chest pain, hyperalertness, and even seizures. Some people also experience teeth grinding and kidney or liver failure. These effects are caused by synthetic cathinone, which mimics natural chemicals in the African khat plant.
Prevalence of bath salt use in New York City
A recent MTF study examined the prevalence of “bath salt” use in New York City high school students and the potential correlates of use. The study utilized data from the MTF’s 2012-2013 survey, which included nearly 15,000 high school seniors. Researchers assessed the prevalence of bath salt use by asking students about their past use of eleven different drugs. The researchers used Rao-Scott chi-square tests for bivariate analysis, and they used logistic regression models with sample weights and corrections for the survey’s multicollinearity.
NBOMe, a new psychedelic, is very potent and hard to dose. The study also showed that one out of ten respondents reported using synthetic cathinones, known as “bath salts” in the United States. In this study, Methylone (“M1) was the most common “bath salt” used. Researchers note that the study may not be representative of all New York City high school seniors, and many people may be using “bath salts” without knowing it.
Bath salts are recreational designer drugs and are a growing public health concern in New York City. They are not prescribed for medical use and have significant adverse effects. The DEA’s New York Field Division has been investigating the use of these chemicals since February 2011. They are a highly potent stimulant similar to methamphetamine and can cause seizures, heart attacks, and even permanent brain damage.
Bath salts are sold at underground parties and dance clubs. They are sold for $40 to $100 per gram. A packet usually contains one quarter to a gram. These drugs are marketed under names such as “Aura,” “Ivory Wave,” and “Russian River.” They often bear warnings saying that they are not safe for human consumption.
In recent years, bath salts have become an increasingly common and readily available class of designer drugs. They are based on synthetic cathinones, which act similar to the cathinone in khat. They are often injected, inhaled, or sniffed. The most commonly used synthetic cathinones are mephedrone and alpha-PVP. Methamphetamine, caffeine, and other synthetic compounds are also present in bath salts.
Since the use of bath salts is not considered safe, it is essential that health professionals take measures to reduce its use. They are a potential source of infection and may cause a life-threatening complication. Several cases of disseminated Staphylococcus aureus infection have been reported to poison control centers.
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