Publisher: Cambridge University Press
E-ISSN: 1481-8035|16|2|171-176
ISSN: 1481-8035
Source: Canadian Journal of Emergency Medicine, Vol.16, Iss.2, 2014-03, pp. : 171-176
Disclaimer: Any content in publications that violate the sovereignty, the constitution or regulations of the PRC is not accepted or approved by CNPIEC.
Abstract
It is important for emergency physicians to be aware of new psychoactive agents being used as recreational drugs. “Bath salts,” which include 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), mephedrone, and methylone, are the newest recreational stimulants to appear in Canada. There are currently more than 12 synthetic cathinones marketed as bath salts and used with increasing frequency recreationally. Although these drugs are now illegal in Canada, they are widely available online. We present a case report and discuss bath salts intoxication and its anticipated sympathomimetic toxidrome, treatment strategies, and toxicologic analysis, Treatment should not rely on laboratory confirmation. Since the laboratory identification of such drugs varies by institution and toxicologic assay, physicians should not misconstrue a negative toxicology screen as evidence of no exposure to synthetic cathinones. Illicit bath salts represent an increasing public health concern that involves risk to the user, prehospital personnel, and health care providers.
Related content
Tumour lysis syndrome: new territory for a familiar foe?
BRITISH JOURNAL OF HAEMATOLOGY, Vol. 169, Iss. 5, 2015-06 ,pp. :
Prokinetic Agents and QT Prolongation: A Familiar Scene with New Actors
Current Drug Safety, Vol. 5, Iss. 1, 2010-01 ,pp. :