These results suggest an emerging, upward trend in the use of bath salts in Ohio beginning in early 2011. Syndromic surveillance provides a useful and inexpensive way to track trends in designer drug use. In order to identify these types of trends, knowledge of the subject matter and common name of the substance being tracked is essential. Although this type of analysis significantly underestimates the number of people using drugs, it can be used to identify the arrival and pace of adoption of a new drug. This information can be used by prevention programs and lawmakers to reduce the likelihood of widespread adoption. In mid-July 2011, Ohio passed legislation banning the sale of products containing the chemicals found in bath salts. The law took effect on October 15, 2011. The Ohio Department of Health will continue to monitor ED and PCC data for the next designer drug.