The Bath Salt Epidemic

Mephedrone, a key ingredient in the designer-drug mix sold as “bath salts” or as other substances, induces methamphetamine-like cravings similar to effects of the very dangerous drug most commonly referred to as crystal meth. These bath salts are being produced and distributed by underground manufacturers that aren’t regulated by anyone, so the possible chemicals in these substances are mysteriously dangerous.  Though they are titled as bath salts, the product name is simply a cover up so producers can sidestep drug laws and enable the drugs to be technically legal to sell in stores. In order to escape law enforcement scrutiny, products are labeled ‘not for human consumption,’ but manufacturers and consumers know full well it is intended for use as a drug. In addition to being called bath salts, mephedrone has also been sold as plant food, decorative sand, and even as toy cleaner.  It goes by a variety of brand names. Two very popular ones are Ivory Wave and Vanilla Sky; others include Purple Wave, Red Dove, Blue Silk, Zoom, Bloom, Cloud Nine, Ocean Snow, Lunar Wave, White Lightning, Scarface, and Hurricane Charlie.

Mephedrone is a unique psychostimulant of abuse that shares pharmacological properties similar to, and yet distinct from, both crystal meth and MDMA (ecstasy). Mephedrone has never been approved for human consumption nor are these illicit products made under the kind of good manufacturing practices necessary for legal drugs, supplements, and foods. Poison control centers are progressively receiving more and more calls concerning people’s reactions to these unknown drugs and deaths are becoming very common. These drugs are showing up in local stores, head shops, and on the internet so they are relatively easy to obtain, but don’t be fooled by the label. If you, a loved one, or any members of the Boston, Massachusetts (MA) community come across these substances, don’t take them lightly, because they can be lethal. Mephedrone is a highly addictive and potentially deadly drug, so users must seek help immediately. Because of the powerful addiction capabilities of these substances, the best option is to obtain help through Seabrook House. Seabrook House is an internationally recognized private and exclusive inpatient drug rehabilitation and alcoholism detoxification treatment center with an elite CARF accreditation status. Located in rural Bridgeton, New Jersey (NJ)—roughly a 6 hour drive or about an hour flight from Boston, Massachusetts (MA), Seabrook House can help patients fight addiction to Mephedrone and get on the road to recovery.