New Drugs and Trends

• Khat is an everygreen shrub found in East Africa and throughout the Middle East. It is a stimulant by nature and is chewed like tobacco. The effects of khat are similar to that of other stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine. Khat has been illegal in the US since 1993.
  
• Bath Salts are a new type of “designer drug”, a man-made drug created to skirt existing laws.  Bath salts are made of stimulant components and can cause high blood pressure, paranoia, hallucinations, and chest pains. By labeling this drug as “bath salts” and “not for human consumption” manufacturers are able to get around existing laws.  Many states have banned bath salts, and the Federal government is working toward passing laws against them.
• Salvia is a powerful hallucinogen that can be chewed or smoked.  The effect of this drug is short-lived, but very intense.  Users of Salvia experience dizziness, and loss of coordination; which raises concerns of bodily harm and complications if users decide to drive.  Many users have found using Salvia to be an unpleasant and fearful experience.  Many states and countries have banned the use of Salvia, and the DEA is working on the national level to control the substance.
• K2 (incense)
  This blend of herbs and chemicals mimics marijuana if smoked but is not by any means safe.

60 Minutes video clip on Snus (smokeless tobacco product)
Is snus safer than smoking? Will it decrease risk of harm from tobacco?

• DMT - The Basics
  While not a popular drug being used by UW Colleges students, it has surfaced in some communities.
  
• Above the Influence
  Current drug information in a "cool" contemporary format.