Bath Salts Chemistry

Learn about the chemical composition of bath salts. Additional facts are provided about the class of drugs called bath salts.

Active Chemical in Bath Salts

The designer drug called bath salts contains a synthetic cathinone. Usually this drug is 3, 4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) although sometimes a related drug called mephedrone is used. Less commonly, bath salts contain a synthetic stimulant called methylone. Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) is a psychoactive stimulant that acts as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI).

Properties and Appearance

The chemical formula of pure MDPV is C₁₆H₂₁NO₃. The pure hydrochloride salt is a very fine, hydroscopic crystalline powder ranging in color from pure white to yellow-tan. The powder somewhat resembles powdered sugar. It has a tendency to stick to itself and form small clumps. There is a slight odor, which is stronger with colored varieties.

Bath Salts Marketing

Bath Salts have been marketed as bath salts and labelled "not for human consumption", although the packaging often indicates the product is not really intended for use in the bath. Plus, the products tend to be carried by head shops, gas stations and convenience stores rather than bath and body shops. Increasing public awareness of the product has led to Bath Salts being sold under the guise of jewelry cleaner or iPod screen cleaner.

Forms of the Drug

Bath Salts typically are sold as tablets or as a powder. The drug may be swallowed, snorted or injected.

Bath Salts Effects

MDPV is a stimulant that produces similar effects to those produced by amphetamines, cocaine and methylphenidate. However, Bath Salts tend not to be a pharmaceutical-grade drug, so other effects and side effects may be observed.

Psychological Effects

Bath salts are popular because of their desired psychological effects, which are associated with related stimulants, too:

• euphoria

• increased mental alertness
• increased wakefulness
• increased energy and motivation
• mental stimulation
• increased concentration
• increased sociability
• sexual stimulation
• empathogenic effects
• diminished perception of the need for sleep and food

Acute Physiological Effects

Effects are dependent on the dose. Overdose may result in rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, seizures, metabolic acidosis, respiratory failure, liver failure and death. Typical dose effects may include:

• rapid heartbeat
• elevated blood pressure
• vasoconstriction (narrowing blood vessels)
• insomnia
• nausea
• stomach cramping
• grinding teeth
• elevated body temperature (up to 107°F - 108°F, which may be life-threatening)
• dilated pupils
• headache
• kidney pain
• tinnitus
• dizziness
• overstimulation
• hyperactivity
• difficulty breathing
• agitation
• paranoia
• confusion
• psychotic delusions
• extreme anxiety
• suicidal thoughts/actions

More About Bath Salts

Chemicals in Bath Salts
Detergent and Bath Salts Form Deadly Gas
Bath Salts Recipe

Street Names and Brand Names for Bath Salts

Red Dove

Blue Silk

Zoom

Bloom

Cloud Nine

Ocean Snow

Lunar Wave

Vanilla Sky

Ivory Wave

White Lightning

Scarface

Purple Wave

Blizzard

Stardust

Lovey Dovey

Snow Leopard

Aura

Hurricane Charlie

MDPV

MDPK

MTV

Maddie

Black Rob

Super Coke

PV

Peeve

Meph

Drone

MCAT

Meow Meow