Inhalant Drug Abuse

An Introduction to Inhalants

Inhalants are gases and vapors that have psychoactive, mood-altering effects. They can be taken in a variety of ways, but all involve inhaling the substance in some manner. Inhalants act as a central nervous system depressant, inducing feelings of euphoria and other side effects that are similar to being drunk or using benzos. These include a lack of coordination, confusion, and nausea.

Inhalant addiction, withdrawal, and overdose aren’t common. However, these drugs are still a major concern because of how accessible they are. Inhalants are made up of a vast array of items including everyday household products like hairspray, nail polish remover, or air-freshening sprays. This drug type is made up of four categories: aerosol sprays, gases, nitrates, and volatile solvents. 

Youth Abuse of Inhalants

Many of these substances are cheap and readily available on shelves of local grocery stores or other retailers. For this reason, inhalants are most likely to be used by children and adolescents. Rates of abuse are highest amongst children between the ages of 10 and 16, which has garnered inhalants the reputation of being a “kid drug”. This name is dangerously misleading, as inhalant use can quickly turn fatal. A study found that 22% of first-time inhalant users died from a circumstance known as sudden sniffing death syndrome, which also happens to be the leading cause of inhalant deaths. 

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Inhalant Addiction Resources

12 Signs Of Huffing (Inhalant Abuse)

12 Signs Of Huffing (Inhalant Abuse)

Inhalants are chemicals found in domestic or workplace products. These chemicals release chemical vapors, which can be inhaled to experience mind-altering effects or to “get high.” It’s possible to abuse these inhalants like any other addictive drug, a practice known...

What is Huffing & Why Do People Do It?

What is Huffing & Why Do People Do It?

Huffing is a type of substance abuse that involves inhaling fumes from common household substances, such as hair sprays and aerosols. More properly known as inhalant abuse, this practice is widespread among teenagers and young adults and comes with hazardous side...

National Inhalants & Poisons Awareness Week

National Inhalants & Poisons Awareness Week

National Inhalant & Poisons Awareness Week is recognized the third week in March each year. In 2021, this campaign falls on March 15-21. It was created by the National Inhalant Prevention Coalition to educate the public about the dangers of inhalants and to...

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