Flakka & Bath Salts

Mephedrone, one of the main ingredients in bath salts and flakka, was synthesized as far back as the late 1920’s. However, it was not until the 2000’s that designer chemicals became popular for abuse.

A designer drug is a synthetic variation of an already illegal drug, Due to slight chemical changes, manufacturers are able to stay one step ahead of legislation and law enforcement. This legal gray area is what allows substances like bath salts to be sold in stores and damage the lives of young adults.

Until recently, chemicals such as MDPV and alpha-PVP could be purchased online legally through Chinese vendors and shipped directly to your doorstep. Laboratories overseas are mostly responsible for the production of bath salts, although China has recently banned the manufacturing of these substances.

No. Designer drugs like flakka and bath salts are chemically based on naturally occurring Cathinones, but they are entirely synthetic and made in laboratories. Cathinones are derived from the khat plant, which is native to the Middle East and parts of Africa.

Alpha-PVP (flakka) is created in a laboratory and is entirely synthetic.  That means it is designed to be as potent as possible. Uppers like cocaine are naturally derived, which makes them less potent and more expensive to the consumer, while synthetics cost significantly less.

Flakka increases the body’s internal temperature and heart rate, which can wreak havoc on the user’s internal organs. Reports state that kidney damage and even kidney failure have occurred. Those who are prone to medical conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, or aneurysms are even more at risk.

Due to the similarities between synthetic stimulants and drugs like cocaine and amphetamines, Bath Salts have a high potential for abuse and can be addictive.

While bath salts and flakka are both designer drugs in the family of synthetic cathinones, chemically they are different. They do , however, produce similar effects and are equally as dangerous.

Yes. As of July 2012 the Synthetic Drug Abuse Prevention Act banned the distribution and possession of chemicals commonly found in bath salts. However, the products are still sold illegally, oftentimes through online vendors.

Yes. Just like other amphetamines, bath salts can lead to an overdose. Symptoms of an overdose include profuse sweating, increased heart rate, vomiting, and labored breathing. As with any substance, potential for overdose increases when combined with other substances such as alcohol, marijuana, or prescription drugs.