Bath Salts Banned in New York

New York is the latest state to ban bath salts. New York State’s Health Commissioner has banned the sale of bath salts, effective immediately, the Associated Press reports.

Bath salts are crystallized chemicals that users snort, swallow or smoke. The two powerful stimulants in these synthetic drugs mimic cocaine, LSD and methamphetamine. In the first three months of 2011, poison control centers received more than 1,400 calls for bath salts, compared with 301 in all of 2010.

Bath salts are leading to the hospitalization of hundreds of people nationwide, the AP notes. They are often sold in convenience stores. Symptoms include paranoia, delusions, hallucinations, suicidal behavior and violence. Bath salts can also cause chest pains and increased blood pressure.