Bath Salts and Synthetic Drugs

To combat the synthetic drug problem and the proliferation of these dangerous drugs, New York State has established the Synthetic Drug Hotline. This hotline number can be used to report manufacturing, distribution, sale and possession of synthetic drugs, such as "bath salts" and "synthetic marijuana." Many of these dangerous synthetic drugs, which are not approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration for medical use in the United States, may act as stimulants and/or hallucinogens. Bath salts and other synthetic drugs pose a direct, serious threat to public health and safety.

Synthetic Drug Hotline Established - 1-888-99-SALTS (1-888-997-2587)

Use of "bath salts" pose serious health risks and can cause effects similar to those caused by cocaine and amphetamines, including but not limited to increased heart rate and blood pressure, hallucinations, paranoia, suicidal thoughts, violent behavior, nausea and vomiting. In an effort to mask their true purpose, these substances are marketed as "bath salts", "plant food" and other ordinary household goods and may be sold in convenience stores, gas stations and smoke shops.

Use of synthetic marijuana (often marketed as "legal alternatives to marijuana", "K2" or "Spice") also poses serious health risks and has been linked to severe adverse reactions, including death and acute renal failure, and commonly causes: increased heart rate and blood pressure, paranoia, agitation, nausea and vomiting, confusion, drowsiness and seizures.

• For more information related to these dangerous substances, view the Frequently Asked Questions (PDF, 72KB, 7pg.)
• For more information related to drug abuse treatment visit the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services website or call 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369).

To report synthetic drug abuse, sale, manufacturing, distribution or possession:

• Call 1-888-99-SALTS (1-888-997-2587) or
• E-mail the Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement

In the e-mail please provide the name, address (including county) of the establishment engaged in the synthetic drug activity and the type of activity noted (manufacturing, sales, distribution, or possession).

Additional Information

• View the Department of Health's Commissioner's Summary Order (PDF, 97KB, 13pg.)
• Dear Healthcare Provider Letter: Alert - Emerging Threat to Public Health Associated With the Use of Synthetic Cannabinoids - March 22, 2012
• Dear County Health Department Letter: Alert - Emerging Threat to Public Health Associated With the Use of Synthetic Cannabinoids - March 22, 2012

Footnotes

1. Products are labeled as "bath salts".
2. Please refer to §3306 Article 33 of the Public Health Law, Schedule II (h). Article 33 may be accessed via the Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement webpage: Laws and Regulations