Question

The last few years have seen a worrisome trend, the introduction of so-called analog drugs, those that mimic the effects of dangerous illegal drugs. These drugs are marketed as common household products and are labeled “Not for human consumption.” One example is drugs sold as bath salts. Legitimate bath salts containing salts of magnesium and calcium are added to bath water or foot baths as a soothing agent. Illicit substances sold as bath salts typically contain compounds that produce physiological responses similar to stimulants such as methamphetamine or mephedrone. These drugs can cause hallucinations and other effects that make them exceptionally dangerous. Because many chemicals are sold as bath salts, forensic toxicologists struggle to keep up with new ones that appear.

Please comment whether such products be regulated and if so, how?

Answer 1