CBP: Synthetic Cathinones

Also known as “bath salts,” synthetic cathinones are artificial stimulants whose chemical structure is similar to cathinone, a substance found in the khat plant.

Synthetic cathinones are part of a group of drugs called new psychoactive substances that act similarly to amphetamines, cocaine, and MDMA. Its most common presentation is in the form of a white or yellowish powder, although it can also be found in pills or capsules.

It is worth mentioning that their packaging usually has the legend “not suitable for human consumption.” It`s a cleaning product, which has not undergone the necessary pharmacological evaluations, in order to regulate their manufacture and of course their sale.

Bath salts can be snorted, smoked, or even injected, the latter being the most dangerous method. 

The consumption of this substance can produce euphoria, increase in sociability and increased libido; however, and being an unregulated drug of with little is known about its effects, some studies have shown that users experience paranoia, agitation and hallucinatory delirium; even some of them have shown up psychotic and violent behavior that may lead to death.

It is proven that the abuse of this substance can cause:

Dehydration

Deterioration of skeletal muscle tissue

Renal insufficiency

Blurry vision

Nose bleed

Ringing in the ears

Dry mouth

Difficulty breathing

Increased heart rate

Muscle contraction

Sexual dysfunction

Excessive sweating

Skin rash

Frequent use can result in tolerance, dependence, and strong withdrawal symptoms if the drug is stopped.

One of the main dangers of bath salts is compounded by the fact that these products often contain other unknown ingredients that can have their own harmful effects.

If you want to know the list of prohibited substances emitted by VADA, you can consult the following link:https://devsite7.ggmtesting.com/en/voluntary-anti-doping-association-official-prohibited-list/