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Recent years have shown significant growth of street drugs collectively known as synthetic cathinones — also called "bath salts," "plant food," or designer drugs. The use of these highly toxic drugs is increasing at an alarming rate. In 2010, U.S. Poison Control Centers received 303 calls related to synthetic cathinones in the entire year. In 2011 that number jumped to 5,625 calls. This type of explosive growth is considered similar to the PCP growth seen in the 1970s.
The synthetic or "designer" cathinones bursting onto the market in recent years have appeared as powders, tablets, and capsules and are widely available online and in retail stores. Bath salts are often intentionally mislabeled and include "not for human consumption" to avoid prosecution. Despite some popular misconception, bath salts are not derived in any way from the bathing salts that you can buy in health and wellness stores. They are synthesized and manufactured chemically and are more similarly to crystal methamphetamine.
In 2012, bath salt abuse and awareness has dramatically increased. High profile incidents and numerous other alleged abuse cases have thrust the bath salt epidemic into the public eye. Given the rapid emergence and evolution of these highly dangerous drugs, education and awareness are paramount.
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