The use of synthetic cathinone and bath salts has increased dramatically over the past few years.
These substances are often sold under names such as “bath salt,” “spice,” “plant food,” “herbal incense,” and “research chemical.” They are typically ingested orally or intravenously, and many people report feeling euphoric, energetic, and alert the following consumption.
Although there are no specific reports of deaths related to synthetic cathinone, some individuals experience psychosis, seizures, and cardiac arrest after taking these compounds. In addition, several cases of acute liver failure have been reported among young adults who used bath salts.
There is limited research into the potential long-term health consequences associated with exposure to synthetic cathinone and/or bath salts. However, preliminary evidence suggests that these substances may cause significant changes in brain chemistry.
For example, one study found that chronic administration of 4-methyl methcathinone (4-MMC), a commonly abused synthetic cathinone derivative, resulted in decreased levels of serotonin and dopamine in rats’ brains.
Other studies suggest that exposure to synthetic cathinone derivatives may lead to alterations in behaviour and cognition. Additionally, animal models indicate that these substances may induce neurotoxicity and impair learning and memory.
Although it appears that synthetic cathinone and their analogues are relatively safe when taken in low doses, there is little information about how much of these substances is required to produce toxic effects. Further research is needed to determine whether there is a dose threshold above which these substances become harmful.
Abstract
The synthetic cathinone market is growing rapidly due to increasing popularity among recreational drug users. These compounds are becoming increasingly popular because they offer similar effects to those produced by MDMA while being much safer and cheaper.
In addition, they do not require a prescription, making them easy to acquire. This paper provides a brief overview of the synthetic cathinone market, including the types of compounds that exist today, how they are used, and what the future holds for this industry.
METHODS
Mice were exposed to smoke generated from a device designed to deliver cannabis extract into the lungs of mice via nose-only inhalations. Cannabinoid levels were measured in blood plasma and brain tissue following exposure.
RESULTS
The dose-dependent effects of inhaled JWH018 on locomotor activity were similar to those reported in previous studies. Plasma concentrations of THC increased rapidly following administration of the drug, reaching maximum values within 5 min. In addition, there was a significant increase in CB1 receptor binding potential in the frontal cortex. These data suggest that the mouse model described here provides a useful tool for studying the pharmacological actions of cannabinoids.
CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates that it is possible to use a simple and inexpensive system to expose animals to aerosolized drugs. This technique offers several advantages over conventional methods, including ease of use, low cost, and minimal stress to the animal.