What Are Inhalants

Inhalants are breathable substances that produce psychoactive (mood-altering) vapours, which are found in lighter gas refills and fuel canisters. Aerosols containing products such as hairspray, deodorants and air freshener’s, tins or tubes of glue and some paints, thinners and correcting fluids. They are sniffed or breathed into the lungs through the nostrils or mouth.

Two popular inhalants are Amyl Nitrite and Butyl Nitrite. It is a clear, yellowish liquid that is sold in a cloth-covered, sealed bulb. The bulbs emit a popping or snapping sound when broken, which accounts for the nicknames “Poppers” and “Snappers.” Butyl Nitrite is packaged in small bottles, often marked incense, and sold under a variety of names including “locker room” and “rush.” The high from Butyl Nitrite lasts from a few seconds to several minutes.

The principal substance of abuse in anaesthetic’s is Nitrous Oxide. A Colourless, sweet-tasting gas used by doctors and dentists for general anaesthesia, Nitrous Oxide is called “Laughing Gas” because it often induces a state of giggling and laughter. Nitrous Oxide is often sold in large balloons from which the gas is released and inhaled for its mind-altering effects. Inhaling the gas may deplete the body of oxygen and can result in death; prolonged use can result in peripheral nerve damage.

Extended use of inhalants can cause weight loss, fatigue, and an electrolyte (salt) imbalance. Repeated use can permanently damage the nervous system, greatly reducing physical and mental abilities.

Effects And Risks Of Taking Inhalants

Effects Of Inhalants:

  • Thick headed.
  • Dizzy.
  • Giggly and dreamy.
  • Flushed face.
  • Dizziness.
  • Can cause hallucinations of seeing or hearing things that aren’t real.
  • The effects usually last around 15 to 45 minutes

Risks Of Inhalants:

  • Death (Some people have died the on the first time of use).
  • Poor muscle control.
  • Blackouts.
  • Increased heart rate and headache.
  • Ringing in the ears.
  • Abnormal heart rhythm.
  • Nosebleeds.
  • Double vision.
  • Irritation of the eyes.
  • Chest pain.
  • Muscle and joint aches.
  • Long term use can damage the brain, liver and kidneys.

Symptoms Of Inhalant Use Include:

  • Bad breath.
  • Odour on clothes.
  • Runny nose.
  • Sneezing.
  • Watery eyes.
  • Drowsiness.
  • Nausea.
  • Feeling and looking tired.
  • Coughing.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Poor judgement.
  • Lack of co-ordination.

Are Inhalants Addictive

Unfortunately tolerance develop quickly and usually as users mature, they seek other substances such as Cannabis, Cocaine, and LSD in order to achieve that high.