Inhalants

Source: MedlinePlus Health Topics, U.S. National Library of Medicine

What are inhalants? Inhalants are substances that people inhale (breathe in) to get high. There are other substances that people might inhale, such as alcohol. But those are not called inhalants, because they can also be used another way. Inhalants are the substances that you can misuse only by inhaling them. Using inhalants to try to get high, even once, can be very harmful to your brain and body. It can even lead to death. What are the types of inhalants? Inhalants are often products that are easily bought and can be found in the home or workplace. They contain dangerous substances that have psychoactive (mind-altering) properties when they are inhaled. The four main types of inhalants are: Solvents , which are liquids that become gas at room temperature. They include paint thinner, nail polish remover, gasoline, and glue. Aerosol sprays , such as spray paint, deodorant spray, and vegetable oil sprays. Gases , including gas from lighters, whipped cream dispensers, and laughing gas. Nitrites, which are similar to a prescription medicine for chest pain. They are sometimes called "poppers." They are sold in small bottles and may be labeled as "air freshener," "leather cleaner," or "liquid aroma." They are usually not used to alter someone's mood, but to improve their sexual function. Some of the common slang terms for various inhalants include: Gluey Huff Laughing gas Rush Snappers Whippets/Whippits How do people use inhalants? People who use inhalants breathe in the fumes through their nose or mouth, usually by "sniffing," "snorting," "bagging," or "huffing." It's called different names depending on the substance and equipment used. The high that inhalants produce usually lasts just a few minutes, so people often try to make it last by inhaling them again and again over several hours. Who uses inhalants? Inhalants are mostly used by young kids and teens. They often try inhalants before they try other substances because inhalants are easier to get. What are the signs