Science, Tech, Math › Science Bath Salts Chemistry Facts About Baths Salts Share Flipboard Email Print This is the chemical structure of the primary ingredient in the drug called "bath salts", MDPV or methylenedioxypyrovalerone. Harbin, public domain Science Chemistry Medical Chemistry Basics Chemical Laws Molecules Periodic Table Projects & Experiments Scientific Method Biochemistry Physical Chemistry Chemistry In Everyday Life Famous Chemists Activities for Kids Abbreviations & Acronyms Biology Physics Geology Astronomy Weather & Climate By Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Chemistry Expert Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College Dr. Helmenstine holds a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences and is a science writer, educator, and consultant. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels. our editorial process Facebook Facebook Twitter Twitter Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Updated January 30, 2019 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 labeled "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. 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: EuphoriaIncreased mental alertnessIncreased wakefulnessIncreased energy and motivationMental stimulationIncreased concentrationIncreased sociabilitySexual stimulationEmpathogenic effectsDiminished 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 heartbeatElevated blood pressureVasoconstriction (narrowing blood vessels)InsomniaNauseaStomach crampingGrinding teethElevated body temperature (up to 107°F - 108°F, which may be life-threatening)Dilated pupilsHeadacheKidney painTinnitusDizzinessOverstimulationHyperactivityDifficulty breathingAgitationParanoiaConfusionPsychotic delusionsExtreme anxietySuicidal thoughts/actions 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