ABUSE_MAGAZINE_ID_ Illinois issue | Page 23

DEA to outlaw bath salt drugs bath salt drugs Bath salts” have effects similar to meth, ecstasy. Photo source: thewatershed.com Many synthetic drugs still legal after “bath salts” ban Containers of bath salts, synthetic stimulants that mimic the effects of traditional drugs like cocaine and speed, sit in many local smoke shops. People are inventing so many new, legal ways to get high that lawmakers can’t seem to keep up. Over the past two years, the U.S. has seen a surge in the use of synthetic drugs made of legal chemicals that mimic the dangerous effects of cocaine, amphetamines and other illegal stimulants. The drugs are often sold at small, independent stores in misleading packaging that suggests common household items like bath salts, incense and plant food. But the substances inside are powerful, mindaltering drugs that have been linked to bizarre and violent behavior across the country. Law enforcement officials refer to the drugs collectively as “bath salts,” though they have nothing in common with the fragrant toiletries used to moisturize skin. Products considered synthetic drugs. 841 South River Street Aurora, IL 630-896-4206 481 NE. Industrial Dr. Aurora, IL 630-844-1676 “We are proud to keep our youths Tires in perfect condition to travel down an ABUSE FREE ROAD!” We are proud to help and repair vehicles so they can drive safely down the road to an ABUSE FREE future. 535 5th Ave. • Aurora, IL • 630-898-0052 Photo source: www.baltimoresun.com 710 S. Illinois Ave. • Carbondale, IL 618-549-7304 Located right next to the beautiful SIUC Campus. 710 Book Store has been serving the students & faculty at Southern Illinois University of Carbondale for over 30 YEARS. We care & we get involved. www.seventen.com abusemagazine.org | Illinois Spring/Summer 2013 | 23