Substance guides

What are bath salts? The synthetic stimulant danger

Published November 22, 2024 · 7 min read · Updated April 2026

Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals.

Bath salts is a street name for synthetic cathinones, stimulant drugs chemically related to cathinone found in the khat plant. They are not related to bathing products.

Effects

Euphoria and increased energy (desired effects). Paranoia, agitation, and violent behavior. Hallucinations and psychosis. Dangerously elevated body temperature. Rapid heart rate and hypertension. Panic attacks. Delirium.

Why they are dangerous

Unpredictable potency and composition. Severe psychosis and agitation (excited delirium). Hyperthermia can be fatal. Psychotic episodes may persist for days. No antidote.

Emergency treatment

Medical sedation for severe agitation. Cooling measures for hyperthermia. Benzodiazepines for seizures. Cardiac monitoring. Psychiatric evaluation.

Authoritative sources

This article references guidelines from: SAMHSA · NIDA · ASAM

Frequently asked questions

What are bath salts drugs?

Synthetic cathinones, a class of stimulant drugs. Not related to bathing products.

Can bath salts kill you?

Yes. Hyperthermia, cardiac events, and excited delirium can be fatal.

Are bath salts addictive?

Yes. Synthetic cathinones produce compulsive use patterns similar to cocaine and methamphetamine.

Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.