Flashback phenomenon and residual neurological deficits after the use of "bath salt" 3, 4- methylenedioxypyrovalerone

BACKGROUNDThe use and abuse of designer drugs has been recognized for decades; however there are many derivatives of compounds that make their way into the community. Abuse of compound(s) known on the street as "bath salt" is on the rise. METHODSWe report the case of a 33-year-old man who complained of "flashbacks" and right arm shaking that followed a night of "bath salt" snorting. The active compound methylenedioxypyrovalerone methamphetamine (MDPV) was confirmed; however, analysis of three different "bath salt" products showed difference in their active components. RESULTSThe patient's symptoms remained stable and he was discharged home after observation in the emergency department with instructions to return for any symptom progression. CONCLUSIONPractitioners should be aware of the abuse of the compounds and that not all "bath salt" products contain MDPV.