Specialist Help for Addiction to Bath Salts
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Synthetic cathinones are stimulant drugs with psychoactive properties. They belong to a group of drugs known as ‘new psychoactive substances (NPS)’1–3
- There are around 130 different synthetic cathinone drugs, including mephedrone and methylone3
- In the UK, synthetic cathinones are illicit, Class B substances5
- Synthetic cathinones come in powder, pill and crystal form and are taken by swallowing, snorting or injecting the drug3
- As they resemble bath salts (i.e., Epsom salts), synthetic cathinones are commonly known by this street name, among other terms, like vanilla sky, stardust and pure ivory6
- The effects of synthetic cathinones are similar to other stimulants like amphetamines. In the short-term, use of these substances can produce an intense rush of euphoria, increased energy levels, dilated pupils, sweating and dizziness3
- Psychosis and toxic effects, such as spikes in heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature and seizures, can occur with synthetic cathinone use7,8
- Overdose can occur with first use and can be fatal. These events are medical emergencies. It is vital to contact emergency services if you suspect an overdose has occurred6,7
- There are no approved medications for treating synthetic cathinone addiction, however behavioural therapies, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), can be effective treatments6
What Are Synthetic Cathinones (Bath Salts)?
Cathinone is a psychoactive stimulant found in the khat plant. The leaves of this plant can be chewed to elicit euphoric effects. Estimates suggest that khat could be the world’s most widely used psychoactive herb.1
Synthetic cathinones are produced in labs and are chemically similar to naturally-occurring cathinone. This group of drugs are stimulants, meaning that they increase central nervous system activity. They also belong to a category of drugs known as ‘new psychoactive substances (NPS)’, also known as legal highs. NPS drugs are designed to mimic the effects of illicit drugs, such as cocaine, cannabis and ecstasy.1–3
Around 130 different synthetic cathinones have been detected by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA). Examples of synthetic cathinones include mephedrone, methylone and ethylone.1,3 All synthetic cathinones have psychoactive properties1, meaning that they can alter brain functioning, leading to altered awareness, thoughts, mood, emotions and/or behaviours.4
Some synthetic cathinones, like diethylpropion and bupropion, have medical uses. Diethylpropion can be prescribed as a short-term weight loss treatment and bupropion can be used as an antidepressant or smoking cessation treatment.1
In the UK, synthetic cathinones are classified as illicit, Class B substances.5 These drugs come as a white or brown powder or as crystals or pills. They can be snorted, swallowed or injected. As they closely resemble bath salts in their appearance, this is a common street name for synthetic cathinones. Other street names include vanilla sky, ocean burst, stardust, meow-meow, drone and pure ivory.3,6,7
Synthetic cathinones, or bath salts, can be misused as a substitute for other more expensive or difficult to obtain drugs. They can also be used unintentionally, as unexpected components of other drugs. Misuse of illicit synthetic cathinones can be dangerous and have fatal consequences.2
The Effects of Synthetic Cathinones
The effects of synthetic cathinones can be similar to other stimulants, like amphetamines. Their effects can vary depending on the specific drug used and the individual using it. Factors influencing the effects of these drugs include:
- An individual’s general health, size and weight
- Level of experience in using the drug
- The strength and dose of synthetic cathinone used
- Use of multiple substances at, or around, the same time (i.e., polydrug use)
The onset and duration of effects can also vary, depending on these factors and the route of administration. For example, snorting reportedly brings on effects within a few minutes, whereas swallowing elicits effects within 15–45 minutes. The effects of synthetic cathinones typically last for around 2–4 hours.3
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Short-term Effects
Use of synthetic cathinones can bring about an array of physical and psychological effects, including:
- Intense rush of euphoria
- Increase in energy and talkativeness
- Dilated pupils
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Nosebleeds (if drug is snorted)
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Reduced appetite
- Sleep disturbances
Significant psychological and behavioural symptoms can also occur following use of synthetic cathinones. For example, paranoia and symptoms of acute psychosis (i.e., loss of contact with reality) can be experienced by people using these psychoactive substances. Symptoms like confusion, hallucinations (i.e., false sensory perceptions) and delusions (i.e., strongly held false beliefs) are hallmarks of acute psychosis. Agitation, violence and self-destructive behaviours can also occur following synthetic cathinone use.7,8
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Toxic Effects
Adverse, or toxic, effects can occur with use of synthetic cathinones. These effects can include:
- Spikes in body temperature, heart rate and/or blood pressure
- Prolonged pupillary dilation
- Teeth grinding
- Muscle fibre breakdown
- Palpitations
- Seizures
Synthetic Cathinone Addiction
Reports suggest that people using synthetic cathinones can develop dependence and have strong compulsions to reuse. Further research into the misuse and addiction potential of these substances is needed.1,3,9
Signs and Symptoms of Synthetic Cathinone Addiction
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), provides helpful criteria for recognising and diagnosing substance use disorders (SUDs). Depending on the number of symptoms experienced, a SUD can be described as mild (2–3 symptoms), moderate (4–5 symptoms) or severe (6 or more symptoms).
The DSM-5 recognises SUDs arising from various substance classes, including stimulants like synthetic cathinones. In cases where stimulants have been misused leading to a SUD, this is known as a stimulant use disorder.
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Potential signs and symptoms of bath salts addiction:
- Using synthetic cathinones in higher doses and/or for longer than intended or prescribed
- Investing large amounts of time in obtaining, using or recovering from synthetic cathinone use
- Experiencing cravings
- Inability to reduce or stop use of synthetic cathinones
- Abandoning significant work, social or hobby activities due to synthetic cathinone use
- Inability to cope with usual home, work or school responsibilities due to synthetic cathinone use
- Continuing to use synthetic cathinones despite relationship issues
- Continuing use despite health issues that may have been caused or exacerbated by synthetic cathinone use
- Continuing use of synthetic cathinones despite potentially dangerous consequences
- Development of tolerance, whereby higher amounts of synthetic cathinones are needed to achieve desired effects
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms which are alleviated by further use of synthetic cathinones
These DSM-5 criteria describe the lack of control, physical dependence, risky use and social issues that can arise from synthetic cathinone addiction.10
Synthetic Cathinone Withdrawal
An individual who is addicted to synthetic cathinones can experience withdrawal symptoms when use is reduced or stopped. Withdrawal effects can include various physical and psychological signs and symptoms, such as:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Tremors
- Insomnia
These effects can vary in severity and make it challenging to abstain from synthetic cathinone use.6
Synthetic Cathinone Overdose
Overdoses of synthetic cathinones can, and have, occurred. The risk of overdose is increased if these substances are snorted or injected and/or if another substance(s) is used at or around the same time (i.e., polydrug use).3,6
Synthetic cathinone overdose can occur with first use and can be fatal.6,7
Overdoses represent medical emergencies. If you think that you or someone around you has overdosed, it is crucial to contact emergency services immediately.
Call 999 to receive life-saving support.
Treatments for Synthetic Cathinone Addiction
There are no specific approved medications used to treat synthetic cathinone addiction. However, behavioural therapies, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and motivational enhancement therapy, can be effective treatments.
For those who continue to use synthetic cathinones, there are some helpful strategies aimed at reducing harm from these substances.6
Harm Reduction Strategies
The following steps can help in reducing the risks associated with synthetic cathinone use:3,6
- Maintain hydration and nutrition: Taking regular, small sips of water before and during synthetic cathinone use can be helpful in avoiding dehydration. Eating healthy foods regularly maintains good vitamin and nutrient levels
- Get plenty of rest: Ensuring you get a good sleep is important in maintaining general health and wellbeing
- Avoid using synthetic cathinones alone: Having trustworthy, sober friends around you can provide a safety net as they can call for help if needed
- Avoid more dangerous routes of administration: Swallowing synthetic cathinone tablets or capsules poses fewer risks than snorting or injecting
- Test with small doses: Using a small amount and waiting to experience the effects before redosing can help reduce the risks of toxic effects and overdose
- Avoid frequent and/or high dose use: Regular synthetic cathinone misuse can lead to significant health issues, including heart problems. Reducing the frequency and/or dose of these substances can help in protecting against these negative health consequences
- Avoid using synthetic cathinones if you have a mental health condition(s): As psychoactive substances1, these drugs can precipitate significant psychological effects. They also may exacerbate underlying mental health conditions10
- Alert those around you if you don’t feel right: If you feel like something isn’t right or are feeling sick, have difficulty breathing, have chest pain or are feeling suicidal, you should seek emergency medical assistance
How Can Castle Craig Help?
Synthetic cathinone addiction can have devastating consequences for individuals and their loved ones. The experienced, professional team at Castle Craig are here to help individuals suffering from various forms of addiction. Our team can help you to recover from the effects of synthetic cathinones and provide a caring and therapeutic environment to support successful long-term recovery.
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Medically-Supervised Detox
At Castle Craig, we recognise addiction as a chronic disease that requires appropriate medical care and support. Our rigorous admissions process helps in determining a patient’s overall health and wellbeing prior to treatment. Upon arrival, you will receive urine and blood tests and a member of the clinical team will take a history and examine your vital signs. These steps can help us to get to know you and your unique situation.
Our clinical team will work to ensure that you are medically stable and continue to monitor for signs and symptoms of synthetic cathinone withdrawal. In some cases, a medically-supervised detoxification, or detox, can be required. We have an experienced medical and nursing team who are committed to supporting patients through the withdrawal process. Our dedicated detox unit provides specialist care and 24/7 support for patients.
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Personalised Treatment Plans
In addition to medically-supervised detox, Castle Craig offers a wide variety of treatments to support patients through synthetic cathinone addiction. Our treatment programmes are grounded in the evidence-based 12-Step model of addiction, which supports personalised treatment for addiction.
Our addiction treatment programmes are delivered by a multidisciplinary team of doctors, therapies and nurses. Depending on a patient’s unique needs and requirements, these plans can feature medical treatments, specialised therapies and complementary therapies.
At Castle Craig, we provide an array of therapies including psychotherapies, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), and complementary therapies, like acupuncture, mindfulness and massage therapy.
Patients are also taught relapse prevention strategies and family members can participate in family therapy sessions.
Continuing Care Programme
At Castle Craig, we recognise that the care you receive after leaving inpatient rehabilitation is crucial in supporting long-term recovery.
We offer a structured aftercare programme, designed to support successful, lasting recovery from addiction. Our 24-week Continuing Care Programme consists of individual and group therapy sessions, delivered online or in-person.
Having appropriate ongoing support can have many benefits for patients in recovery from synthetic cathinone addiction. Aftercare programmes can support long-term recovery by offering support networks, building relapse prevention skills and improving wellbeing and quality of life.
If you or someone you know is suffering from synthetic cathinone addiction, it is important to seek help. This can be challenging but is a crucial first step in recovery. Our friendly and professional team are here to answer any questions you may have and provide guidance on treatment options.
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References
- Poyatos L, et al. Abuse Potential of Cathinones in Humans: A Systematic Review.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. Synthetic Cathinones (“Bath Salts”).
- Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF). Synthetic cathinones.
- National Cancer Institute. Psychoactive substance.
- GOV.UK. Drugs penalties.
- Olenick C, Ratini M. What Are Bath Salts (Drug)?
- United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Bath Salts.
- National Health Service (NHS). Overview – Psychosis.
- Talk to Frank. Cathinones. https://www.talktofrank.com/drug/cathinones [Accessed September 2024].
- Hartney E, Gans S. DSM 5 Criteria for Substance Use Disorders: How substance use disorders are diagnosed.
- Scottish Government. Residential rehabilitation: literature review.
How Can Castle Craig Help?
Who will I speak to when I call Castle Craig?
When you call you will reach our Help Centre team who will give you all the information you need to help you decide whether to choose treatment at Castle Craig. If you decide that you would like to have a free screening assessment you will be asked a series of questions to build up a picture of your medical and drug use history as well as any mental health issues you are facing. If you decide you want to proceed with treatment you will be put in touch with our admissions case managers who will guide you through the admissions process.
How long is the rehab programme?
Residential rehab treatment starts at 4 weeks and can go up to 12+ weeks. Research shows us that the longer you stay in rehab and are part of the residential therapy programme, the longer the likelihood of continued abstinence and stable recovery.
How do I pay for rehab?
One concern we sometimes hear from people is how they will fund their rehab treatment. You can pay for treatment at Castle Craig privately, or through medical insurance, and some people receive funding through the NHS. The cost of rehab varies depending on what kind of accommodation you choose.
What happens at the end of my treatment?
Castle Craig thoroughly prepares patients before departure by creating a personalised continuing care plan which is formulated following discussions with the medical and therapeutic team. We offer an online aftercare programme which runs for 24 weeks after leaving treatment, in order to ensure a smooth transition back into your everyday life. Patients leaving treatment automatically join our Recovery Club where they can stay connected via our annual reunion, events, online workshops and recovery newsletters.