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Inhalants are substances that produce chemical vapors that when inhaled result in mind altering effects.
Motivation for Using:
- Sensation seeking
- Escape
- Pleasure seeking
- Experimentation
- Instant gratification (quick high with rapid onset, can be repeated multiple times in a short span)
- Easy Access
Solvents
- Paint thinner
- Degreaser
- Glue
- Correction fluid
- Electronics cleaners
Gases
- Butane
- Aerosols
- Spray paint
- Nitrous oxide
- Nitrates
- Legal prescription called Amyl Nitrite
- “Poppers” or “snappers” sold under names such as “Rush” or “Liquid Gold”
- Room deodorizers
Immediate Effects of Use:
- Slowing of Bodily functions
- Euphoria/short-term intoxicating effect
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Alteration of perception and sensation
Short-Term Dangers of Use:
- Nausea
- Nosebleeds
- Coughing
- Fatigue
- Loss of Concentration
- Loss of Coordination
- Bad breath
- “Sudden Sniffing Death” resulting from heart failure
- Particularly if inhaling fumes of butane, propane, or chemicals in aerosols
- Can happen in an otherwise healthy youth with even one usage
- Death by suffocation
- Especially when inhaling from a bag or in a closed area
- Results from displacement of oxygen from the lungs
Dangers of Long Term Use:
- Damage to nervous system, including brain cells
- Damage to liver and kidneys
- Damage to bone marrow
- Hearing loss (related to nerve cell damage)
- Chronic limb spasms or neuropathy
- Slurred speech
For more information on methamphetamine, inhalants and addiction in Bucks County call the AIM program at 1-215 345-6644
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