Exploring the Dangers of Bath Salts

There are a number of different drugs out there that can cause addiction, but some are not as well known as others. Case in point: bath salts.

Not to be confused with the Epsom salts that people often add to their bath water in an effort to relax and unwind, bath salts used to get high are dangerous and can cause users to behave in highly inappropriate ways.

Unfortunately, bath salts can be highly addictive and may require intervention and rehab. Although the scope of clinical studies on the effects of bath salts is rather limited, evidence shows that this drug mimics the behavior of amphetamines in terms of their stimulation of neural pathways, which can lead to addiction.

What Are Bath Salts?

Known as “synthetic cathinones,” bath salts used to get high are man-made stimulants related to cathinone, which is found in the khat plant. While khat is a naturally-occurring plant that has a mild effect when its leaves are chewed, the synthetic version can have much more dangerous effects.

Synthetic cathinones typically come in white or brown powder and may be labeled as “bath salts,” as well as “jewelry cleaner” or “plant food.” They are psychoactive substances that are unregulated and have no use in the medical world. They may also be marketed as more affordable substitutes for other drugs that have a stimulating effect on the mind and body, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, or “Molly” (MDMA).

Effects of Bath Salts

The majority of stimulants have similar effects. People who take bath salts and other stimulants seek a number of effects, including the following:

• Euphoria
• Increased energy
• Heightened senses
• Increased libido
• Decreased appetite

Along with these effects come a slew of negative and potentially dangerous effects. The biggest danger associated with taking bath salts is the fact that it is impossible to know the exact combination of chemicals that are included in the drug, as they can differ from one dealer to the next. The most common chemical featured in bath salts are mephedrone, methylone, and methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV).

Bath salts can produce dangerous side effects, such as:

• Psychosis
• Dizziness
• Ulcers
• Lack of coordination
• Rapid heart rate
• Headaches
• Heart palpitations
• Increased risk of stroke or heart attack
• High blood pressure
• Dilated pupils

In addition to these side effects, bath salts can also lead to addiction, which can further lead to the need to take increasing amounts of the drug over time to obtain that coveted “high.” With continued use comes the potential to experience even more dangerous side effects.

Over time, people who misuse bath salts can experience dangerously eccentric behavior and mood disorders. If the bath salt addiction continues, the risk of depression, suicidal attempts, harm to self and others, and even death exponentially rises.

What Are the Signs of Bath Salt Addiction?

Some people who have used bath salts for a certain amount of time may try to stop using the drug after a while. However, when trying to quit taking bath salts, people may experience withdrawal symptoms, including:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Trembling
• Excessive sweating
• Problems sleeping
• Paranoia

Any of these symptoms are potential signs of addiction. Those who experience these symptoms may find them so uncomfortable that they may revert back to using bath salts in order to stop these feelings, which is why addiction treatment is so important.

Getting Help For Addiction to Bath Salts

Addiction can sometimes happen almost immediately, while other times it can creep up on users without them even realizing it. Like other stimulants, bath salts can be highly addictive. Once addiction sets in, it can be difficult to overcome it without the outside help of professionals. Anyone battling an addiction to bath salts is encouraged to look into Ohio addiction treatment resources. Without help, the odds of recurrence of use are much higher.

In rehab, you will be surrounded by medical professionals who can provide you with the necessary help needed to help you onto the road to recovery. Call The Recovery Village to find out more about rehab facilities near you and to learn about admission.