Inhalants
Inhalants are common chemicals found in products like aerosol sprays, cleaning fluids, glue, paint, paint thinner, markers, nail polish remover, amyl nitrite* and lighter fuel. They are sniffed or inhaled (called huffing). There are hundreds of these chemicals present in most homes, offices or home improvement stores.
Inhalants have serious effects on the brain. When these fumes are inhaled through the nose or mouth, they can cause permanent physical and mental damage. The chemicals take the place of oxygen in the lungs, leading to oxygen starvation and even suffocation. This makes the heart beat faster and irregularly, which can lead to sudden heart failure.
People who use inhalants can lose their sense of smell, suffer from nausea and nosebleeds and develop liver, lung and kidney problems. Continued use can lead to reduced muscle mass, tone and strength. Inhalants can make people unable to walk, talk and think normally. Some people become addicted to using inhalants.
Street Names:
- Laughing Gas
- Poppers
- Rush
- Snappers
- Whippets
- * amyl nitrite: a pale yellow chemical used to medically widen blood vessels and in the manufacture of some dyes and explosives, sometimes abused as a stimulant
Short‑Term Effects:
Confusion, slurred speech, lack of coordination, dizziness and euphoria. The user may be drowsy and lightheaded and experience headaches, hallucinations and delusions. Someone on inhalants may also suddenly react with extreme violence.
Long‑Term Effects:
Liver, bone marrow and kidney damage, muscle spasms resulting from nerve damage, muscle wasting, reduced muscle tone and strength. Permanent brain damage can cause problems with thinking, vision, hearing and movement.
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