A forensic toxicologist with a doctorate from the University of Glasgow in Scotland, Barry Logan serves as the executive director of the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. As a toxicologist studying the effects of dangerous substances, Dr. Barry Logan knows the dangers of so-called bath salts.
Also given bland names such as phone screen cleaner or plant food, bath salts are actually human-made drugs derived from the khat shrub, a mild stimulant when chewed. Known to science as synthetic cathinones, the manufactured drugs are 10 times stronger and create effects similar to cocaine, amphetamines, and MDMA.
Manufacturers frequently produce new synthetic cathinones, making enforcement difficult. They are generally sold as a crystalline powder that can be obtained legally online or in paraphernalia stores under a variety of names.
The effects of bath salts range from strong feelings of good will and a more active libido to hallucinations and agitated behavior. Elevated pulse and blood pressure, as well as chest pain, have been associated with use. Longer-term side effects include kidney failure, dehydration, and degraded muscle tissue. In some cases, intake of bath salts has proven fatal.
The name has led to confusion with Epsom salts, a centuries-old remedy used while bathing to relieve sore muscles. They have no effect on the nervous system.
Also given bland names such as phone screen cleaner or plant food, bath salts are actually human-made drugs derived from the khat shrub, a mild stimulant when chewed. Known to science as synthetic cathinones, the manufactured drugs are 10 times stronger and create effects similar to cocaine, amphetamines, and MDMA.
Manufacturers frequently produce new synthetic cathinones, making enforcement difficult. They are generally sold as a crystalline powder that can be obtained legally online or in paraphernalia stores under a variety of names.
The effects of bath salts range from strong feelings of good will and a more active libido to hallucinations and agitated behavior. Elevated pulse and blood pressure, as well as chest pain, have been associated with use. Longer-term side effects include kidney failure, dehydration, and degraded muscle tissue. In some cases, intake of bath salts has proven fatal.
The name has led to confusion with Epsom salts, a centuries-old remedy used while bathing to relieve sore muscles. They have no effect on the nervous system.