Baths Salts, Spice, and Related Designer Drugs: The Science Behind the Headlines
Journal of Neuroscience November 12, 2014 Michael H. Baumann, Ernesto Solis, Lucas R. Watterson et al. 157 citations
The abuse of synthetic psychoactive substances known as "designer drugs" or "new psychoactive substances" (NPS) is increasing rapidly. These drugs are manufactured as legal alternatives to traditional illicit drugs. Synthetic cathinones ("bath salts") and synthetic cannabinoids ("spice") have received substantial media attention. Low recreational doses can produce desirable effects, but high doses or chronic exposure often lead to dangerous medical consequences including psychosis, violent behaviors, tachycardia, hyperthermia, and death. Despite their popularity, there is a paucity of scientific data about these drugs. This review describes the mechanisms of action and neurobiological effects of synthetic cathinones and cannabinoids.