Bath Salts: Health Effects, Signs of Addiction, & Treatment Options

Bath salts, which consist of manmade stimulants known as synthetic cathinones, first started to gain popularity in the United States around 2009.¹ And while today, there is far more information about these synthetic recreational drugs than before, there is still much to be learned about them.

Here, we’ll explore more about bath salts, including signs of bath salt addiction, withdrawal symptoms associated with the use of bath salts, short and long-term effects of this drug, and the steps you can take if you or a loved one are ready to get professional help.

What Are Bath Salts?

Bath salts are a class of manmade recreational drugs that are often referred to as “designer drugs” because they are structurally similar and are designed to mimic other amphetamines.¹ They are called bath salts because they were commonly disguised as actual bath salts, such as Epsom salts, when sold. Their active ingredients are synthetic cathinones, which are structurally similar to the naturally-occurring stimulant found in the khat plant, however far more potent.^2,3 These synthetic compounds are produced in laboratory settings and are sold in various forms, including powders, tablets, and crystalline forms, which can be snorted, smoked, injected, or orally consumed.^1,4

Bath salts are designed to replicate the stimulant effects of khat, cocaine, and methamphetamine, such as euphoria and increased alertness.⁴ However, they are also associated with a wide range of adverse effects, including psychological and physiological disturbances and complications.^1,4

Effects and Dangers of Bath Salts

Using bath salts is not safe for a variety of reasons, especially because it is impossible to determine exactly what is in each manmade batch. The use of bath salts in any capacity can cause a number of problematic effects and put one’s health and wellbeing in danger.

Effects of Bath Salts

Depending on several factors, including how much was used and what other substances may have been in them, the use of bath salts can produce a wide range of effects, many of which can include the following:⁵

• Euphoria.
• Hallucinations.
• Sweating.
• Vomiting.
• Irritability.
• Chest pain.

Dangers of Bath Salts

Synthetic cathinones have not been extensively studied as of yet, and their chemical composition is ever-changing. Therefore, a wide range of dangers are possible and can vary from one person to the next.

Generally speaking, however, some studies have been able to identify some potential dangers and long-term risks of bath salt use, including:^6,7,8

• High blood pressure.
• Dangerously high body temperature.
• Severe paranoia.
• Seizures.
• Muscle damage, or a condition known as rhabdomyolysis.
• Risk of overdose, which can be fatal.

Are Bath Salts Addictive?

Yes, bath salts can be addictive, as synthetic cathinones can produce similar neurochemical changes in the brain that other stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine can produce.⁹ Additionally, research shows that people who use bath salts chronically may experience withdrawal symptoms and tolerance, both of which are indicators of addiction.^10,11

Signs of Bath Salt Addiction

People who become addicted to bath salts have developed an addiction to synthetic cathinones, which would be diagnosed as a stimulant use disorder by a medical professional. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the criteria for stimulant use disorder include:¹²

• Being unable to cut down or control use.
• Using larger amounts or over a longer period than intended.
• Craving continued use.
• Spending a lot of time in activities necessary to obtain, use, or recover from stimulant use.
• Continued use despite stimulants causing persistent social or interpersonal problems.
• Continued use that results in failure to uphold responsibilities at home, work, or school.
• Giving up previously enjoyed activities because of stimulant use.
• Continued use in situations in which it is physically hazardous to do so.
• Tolerance.
• Withdrawal.

If you or your loved one may be experiencing stimulant use disorder, you’re not alone. Quitting bath salts is possible, and addiction treatment can help.

Bath Salt Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal from bath salts occurs when a person suddenly stops using them, and the symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable.

Symptoms of bath salt withdrawal can include:¹⁰

• Tiredness.
• Insomnia.
• Nasal congestion.
• Impaired concentration.

Working closely with a medical professional can help to keep a person as safe and comfortable as possible as drugs are cleared from the body. Medical detox can also help a person mentally and physically prepare for additional treatment, including residential/inpatient care, partial hospitalization rehab programs, or intensive outpatient addiction treatment programs.

Getting Help for Bath Salt Addiction

If you or a loved one is ready to seek rehab for a substance use disorder, explore your options and reach out to a rehab center using our rehab search directory today!