Designer Drugs
Discover Magazine, July 17, 2012
“Synthetic, or designer, drugs are chemical compounds that imitate the effects of marijuana, stimulants, and other recreational drugs. Unlike illegal substances, synthetics are easily accessible to users who want to get high without risking legal repercussions. Although the Federal Analog Act of 1986 prevents the sale of chemicals with structures that are ‘substantially similar’ to those of illegal drugs, it only applies to drugs intended for human consumption. Manufacturers easily leap this hurdle by labeling their synthetic drugs as non-ingestible products such as incense, potpourri, or bath salts. Taking a different tack, the government recently passed the Synthetic Drug Abuse Prevention Act of 2012, which makes some of the popular designer drugs illegal.”
Synthetic Marijuana
Common names for synthetic marijuana are Black Mamba, K2 and Spice.
Symptoms:
- Extreme nervousness
- Rapid heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Hallucinations and seizures
Bath Salts
A few common names for bath salts include Red Dove, Mystic, and White Horse, but there are many more. For a more complete list, click here.
Symptoms:
- Extreme nervousness
- Rapid heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Hallucinations and seizures
- Paranoia/psychosis
- Death
