Synthetic stimulant (“bath salts”) addiction in Astana

Reviewed byNurlan Isayev, MDAddiction psychiatrist, experience 10 years · updated 8 Nov 2026

Key facts

ICD-10 code

F15.2

Who provides it

An addiction doctor, a psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and inpatient medical staff

Where

An inpatient unit for the acute stage; then outpatient care and online sessions

Duration

Stabilization — from several days to 2 weeks; recovery — months

Anonymity

No registry; medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health”

When it is urgent

Psychosis, aggression, seizures, chest pain, fever — call 103 or 112

Outcome

Recovery from the acute state, treatment of mental health problems, and a substance-free program

What you should know

Relatives of people who use “bath salts” and other synthetic stimulants describe the same thing: it is as if the person disappears. Several days without sleep, endless activity, incoherent talk, and then complete exhaustion, apathy, tears. Sometimes fears appear, suspicions of being followed, aggression. The family does not recognize their loved one and does not know what to do. This is not a quirk of character but the effect of dangerous substances on the brain.

In Astana, as throughout Kazakhstan, synthetic drugs are distributed through the internet and messaging apps, so their use is easy to hide. Relatives sometimes notice only courier parcels, absences at night, and sudden changes in behavior. Narcology 24 specialists explain to the family how to behave around a person in an acute state, when to call an ambulance, and how to organize treatment after stabilization.

Signs of Bath Salts and Synthetic Stimulant Use

• several days without sleep with heightened activity, followed by a long, heavy sleep
• dilated pupils, darting eyes, muscle twitching, teeth grinding
• fast, jumbled speech, fidgeting, pointless repetitive actions
• suspiciousness, fears, a feeling of being watched, talk about “pursuers”
• sudden weight loss, refusal to eat, dry lips, sweating
• after a period of activity — apathy, tears, irritability, deep low mood
• courier parcels, absences at night, constantly being busy with the phone

If two or three points apply, it is worth seeing a doctor. Phone advice is free and confidential. If life is at risk, call 103 or 112.

Why Synthetic Stimulants Are So Dangerous

Synthetic stimulants sharply increase the release of neurotransmitters, causing euphoria and a surge of energy, followed by exhaustion. The composition of the substances sold under the general name “salts” is often unknown even to those who distribute them, so the reaction is unpredictable. Typical complications are acute psychosis, panic states, heart rhythm disorders, a rise in body temperature, seizures, dehydration, and sometimes death.

Dependence on stimulants forms quickly and is sustained above all by psychological cravings. After a period of use, severe depression sets in, and the person reaches for the substance again to get out of it. Repeated psychoses can leave persistent mental disorders. That is why treatment must include a psychiatrist’s involvement, and the family must know how to ensure safety at home.

How we help

Myths and facts

How a home visit works

1. Call or message usThe dispatcher answers 24/7 and in 3–5 minutes checks the person's condition, age, how long the drinking or use has lasted, chronic conditions and the address. No surname needed.
2. The doctor sets offAn addiction doctor or psychiatrist comes with equipment and medication. Travel time depends on the district — usually within an hour. If inpatient care or an ambulance is needed, we'll say so straight away.
3. Examination and treatmentBlood pressure, pulse, oxygen saturation, blood sugar if needed and a neurological check. Then an IV drip or other treatment as indicated, 1–3 hours.
4. A plan for the next daysAdvice for the family on what to do overnight and tomorrow, phone follow-up and a repeat visit if needed.
5. Further treatmentCoding, psychotherapy, rehab or psychiatric follow-up — once the acute state has passed and the person is ready.

Prices in Astana

The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.

Where to get help

In astana you can get help at home, at one of our two branches (6 Auezova St., office 37, Astana, 176 Imanova St., Astana) or online if you need a consultation rather than a procedure. The dispatcher answers 24/7 and will tell you straight away which option is safest.

Confidential and private

in Astana our doctor can come in ordinary clothes in an unmarked car. Treatment documents are given only to the patient. If you need a certificate or sick note, this is discussed separately and only at your request.

Questions and answers