In September 2011, the DEA called for an emergency ban on the drugs Mephedrone, Methylone, and Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV). All are synthetic stimulants that have been sold in deceptive packaging under the names “bath salts,” “plant food,” and most recently, glass cleaner.
Often indistinguishable from Cocaine, and have stimulating effects on the central nervous system and cardiovascular system. Use of the drugs can create dangerous effects including psychotic and paranoid behavior or violence. And has also caused several deaths throughout the country, including deaths by suicide.
“Bath salts,” was the original name the products were marketed under when brought under scrutiny by law enforcement. Which led to changes in packaging and renaming. Some states had not yet outlawed their use or purchase, which led to the DEA’s emergency ban and classification of them as Schedule 1 Drugs, or the most restrictive category.
The ban and classification will remain in place for a minimum of 1 year.
Sources: Webmd.com, Bangor News