The health effects of these "designer" drugs may be euphoric, but many are also deadly. We will the the "euphoric" effects to less scrupulous internet sites. It can not be emphasized enough, these drugs are dangerous. States and municipalities are not racing to ban these things because they don't want young adults to have fun, they are banning 'bath salts' and 'plant food' because continue to bring people into the hospital Emergency Rooms with life threatening symptoms.

Warning Signs

Bath salts and plant food mirror the effects of the drug ecstasy (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine) which coupled with their currently legal nature and ease of access is why they have gained such a rapid following. One of the greatest warning signs of potential use is a periodic shift to an overly affectionate state of being. It is believed that these effects are the result of oxytocin release associated with the release of serotonin. The release of ocytocin is responsible for the feeling of affection and closeness during orgasm, childbirth, and even hugging. Obviously the effects from illicit bath salt and plant food derivatives increase this release and metabolism. The result is an affectionate nature that may seem out of character resulting in a desire to tell and show others their feelings and affection. Granted it could be that your child is just finally recognizing the great people around them, but if there is nothing to expect such a change it may be plant food or bath salts.

Health Effects

The most concerning side of plant food/ bath salt use is the physical manifestations associated with overuse/ overdose. This is problematic on two fronts, the obvious on being when a young adult takes too much. Obviously things listed for plant use do not have a warning that would suggest greater than X amount in a certain time frame. Instead the person is left to determine for themselves how much is enough, and sometimes they get it WRONG!!!. The other factor of concern is the fact that though the 'high effect wear off approximately 4 hours after taking it, it is still present in your bloodstream at rather high rates.

The peak level in the blood will be reached after about 30-90 minutes. These peak levels will start to decrease after about 4 hours, but it will still be another 4 hours until the blood stream levels are reduced to half of the peak. This leads to the user thinking that the plant food/ bath salts have left the body and that it will be alright to redose. So now if they use the same amount as before, they will actually be subjected to 50% MORE than the first time. This overdose can lead to server reactions. Some include

• Rapid pulse
• Agitation
• chest pain
• heart attack and stroke
• delusions
• extreme paranoia
• psychosis