Validating testing platforms for new and emerging drugs is a challenge for clinical laboratories. Due to the complex nomenclature, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics of bath salts, it is difficult to meet accreditation requirements. In this article, we examine the complex nomenclature and testing information available for bath salts, and the implications for clinical laboratories. You will be able to use this information to evaluate the quality of your bath salt testing.
Mephedrone
Mephedrone is a psychoactive alkaloid synthesized by Roger Adams in the late 1920s. It is derived from khat, a plant that produces cathinone. The substance is marketed in Europe and the US as a bath salt. However, it is also considered an illicit substance and is often labeled not for human consumption. Although the drug may not be harmful to health, it is still illegal in the United States.
There is no reliable information on the pharmacology of mephedrone and methylone in bath salts. The two substances act on plasma membrane transporters to increase non-exocytotic release of neurotransmitters. The methylone is two-times more potent than mephedrone. Both drugs stimulate serotonin and dopamine in human brain cells. However, the onset of these effects is a slow process.
The ingredients of ‘bath salts’ vary from one batch to another, but their overall concentrations can be in the range of 25 mg to 250 mg. Moreover, the bath salts may contain lidocaine or other chemicals that can be abused. During a single session, users can consume five grams of bath salts. The use of bath salts has become illegal and is linked to violent behavior, death and addiction.
MDPV
MDPV is the main ingredient in MDPV bath salts. It is a synthetic stimulant that appeared on the market in 2004. MDPV is often combined with alcohol, GHB, or cannabis to achieve desired effects. In general, MDPV produces euphoria, talkativeness, and sexual arousal. However, its exact mechanism of action is unknown. Here’s a look at its most common side effects and how it’s used.
The effects of MDPV on the central nervous system have not been characterized in a study involving saline. In contrast, the effects of MDPV in mice were observed in the prelimbic and NAc regions. Functional connectivity measures showed a reduction of approximately threefold in MDPV treatment in the prelimbic region and was not significantly affected in the NAc area or in the control group. However, these results were not consistent in other monkey studies.
One study showed that rats were able to acquire a conditioned aversion to saccharine after MDPV administration. This is consistent with reports of late onset negative effects following MDPV intake. However, further research is required to determine whether MDPV is associated with any reduction in functional connectivity. The researchers also noted that MDPV may not be harmful unless it is combined with other drugs. If this is the case, MDPV should not be used for recreational purposes.
Synthetic cathinones
Synthetic cathinones in bath salts are a new class of psychoactive substances. While the addictive potential of these substances is still largely unknown, researchers have found that people who become dependent on Bath Salts experience symptoms similar to those of other substance abuse. Withdrawal symptoms of bath salts include tremors, paranoia, and depression. In rare cases, users may even develop a serious drug dependency.
Bath salts containing synthetic cathinones can induce serious side effects, including tachycardia, hypertension, and increased heart rate. These effects may lead to seizures and fatal heart conditions. Moreover, many manufacturers market these substances as harmless plant food, insecticides, and chicken feed additives. In fact, most of the drugs sold as Molly have synthetic cathinones instead of MDMA.
Since the first detections by the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office in March 2011, the lab has identified more than forty-two cases where synthetic cathinones were detected in the blood. Since the initial discovery, the Miami Valley Regional Crime Laboratory has received dozens of submissions of products that contain synthetic cathinones. In early 2011, the lab began identifying them with authentic standards. The results of these screenings suggest that MDPV-containing bath salts can be a serious health risk for humans.
Serotonin
The designer stimulant “bath salt” contains the neurotransmitter serotonin. However, this designer drug can lead to serious health problems. The substances raise the levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin in the brain. Some people have reported experiencing hallucinations after using bath salts. These hallucinations may be similar to those from other drugs. Here are some of the risks associated with using bath salts.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, bath salts can have ten times the potency of cocaine. They can also cause severe health problems if abused in large amounts. This is because the bath salts contain cathinones, which interact with the plasma membrane transporters of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. When taken in large doses, they can affect the brain’s ability to process information. This substance can also cause reckless behavior, panic attacks, and extreme mood swings. The body can’t expel heat fast enough, and the risk of overdose is high.
In addition to the risks of bath salts, a synthetic chemical similar to cathinone, found in the plant Khat, is also added to the water in baths. This is different from the Epsom salts, which are non-psychoactive. The synthetic version can increase serotonin levels in the body, leading to an overabundance of the neurotransmitter. These serotonin levels can negatively impact mental wellness and lead to serious side effects.
Dopamine
Dopamine is a natural chemical in the brain that has profound effects on memory, motivation, motor control, and learning. When levels of dopamine are too low, they can damage the brain, a process that is known as Parkinson’s disease. Drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine, which are similar to cocaine, turn the faucet up high. Bath salts are a great way to get the same effects without the harmful side effects.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in our basic sense of pleasure. It’s involved in everything from sex and chocolate to gambling and smartphones. These substances trigger a rush of dopamine in our brain’s reward center, which gives us a feeling of well-being. It’s that constant release and retreat of dopamine that makes us feel good. But how does a bath salt mimic this phenomenon?
Bath salts also affect the brain’s reward system. While dopamine is produced naturally in the brain, it is released in a way that can disrupt the balance between the two chemicals. It can also alter our brain’s reward system, causing us to seek out substances that can increase our dopamine levels. In fact, the National Institute on Drug Abuse says bath salts are ten times more powerful than cocaine.
Kidney failure
The acute toxicity of bath salts may involve a number of drug-related effects, including vasoconstriction induced by dopamine and norepinephrine, rhabdomyolysis, hyperthermia, and volume contraction. Although these effects may not be completely eliminated by hemodialysis, these toxins may accumulate in the kidney. In some cases, continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is necessary.
The main ingredient of bath salts is synthetic cathinones, a stimulant similar to amphetamine. A new study tracked hospital emergency department visits involving this drug. Of those requiring hospitalization, 67% also consumed another substance. Bath salt use has also been linked to high blood pressure, tachycardia, paranoia, hallucinations, and panic attacks. However, it has been found that some users have experienced kidney failure.
Seizures
The use of “bath salts” is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. This synthetic cathinone is often an inexpensive alternative to traditional drugs. In the first four months of 2017, customs officers seized 147kg of the drug, 77 per cent more than the same period in 2016.
The drug has a wide range of psychoactive effects and has become a popular recreational drug in the United States. Seizures and bath salts go hand in hand. The two share many of the symptoms of both conditions, and the side effects of these substances are serious and long lasting. Seizures can be caused by bath salts, but a doctor’s evaluation is vital. An accurate diagnosis can help prevent further problems and can save a life.
A bath salt overdose requires immediate medical assistance. The victim should be transported to a hospital emergency room or to a poison control center. The poison control center is open around the clock and can provide guidance on how to proceed. Paramedic transport is often preferred over ambulance transport. First responders can better manage the patient. If the individual is experiencing physical agitation or seizures, it is crucial to get immediate medical attention.
Physical dependence
Bath salt use has a high incidence among teenagers. Its use is associated with increased mood and anxiety levels and may even be caused by genetic predisposition. The risk of chemical dependency is heightened in people with psychological disorders and those living in high-risk environments. Although most substance abuse professionals acknowledge the genetic component of drug addiction, the prevalence of bath salt use is greater than opiate abuse. In addition, bath salt use may also lead to mood disorders and anxiety.
While many treatments are available for bath salt dependency, the cost, setting, and services vary widely. Treatment options depend on the severity of the symptoms and the patient’s capacity for treatment. The use of pharmacological therapy may depend on the severity of the symptoms, the patient’s underlying mental health issues, and the social system surrounding the drug use. Some treatment methods require the use of sedatives. However, in the event of withdrawal, a physician can prescribe a medication that will help them manage their symptoms.
