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Inhalants 14
Inhalants are breathable chemicals that produce vapors that alter brain activity. Deaths have been reported. Inhalants are often among the first drugs used by children and teens since they are readily available in their homes and easier to procure than alcohol. Most inhalant abusers are younger than age 25. One national survey indicates that about 3 percent of U.S. children have tried inhalants by the time they reach fourth grade. Today 46 states have induced legislation to prevent sell of inhalants to minors. 9
Actions & Use
Most inhalants slow down body function yet the individual user may, depending on dosage levels, feel stimulated. Inhalants affect both the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Inhalants are attracted to fatty tissues within the body. The absorption of the chemical agent into myelin (fatty tissue surrounding the nerve axon) may result in polyneuropathy. As described later in this section, inhalants are used for legitimate non-medical purposes. Medical/Dental uses of inhalants include nitrous oxide (conscious sedation) and amyl nitrite (treatment of angina pectoris). Interestingly, individuals do not develop a tolerance to inhalants. Immediate death is very likely when using inhalants. Users may suffer asphyxia, suffocation, choking on vomit or sudden sniffing death syndrome (SSD). SSD is the result of a sudden and unexpected disturbance of the heart's rhythm. All inhalants, including nitrous oxide, can produce SSD.
Volatile solvents - (Paint thinners, gasoline, glue, cleaning solutions, nail polish, etc.) Commonly found in the workplace, home and at school, volatile solvents contain toluene. Vital organs rapidly absorb and store toluene, causing serious tissue damage and alteration. SSD caused by cardiac arrhythmia can also occur. Serious burn injury is common due to the highly flammable nature of these substances.
Aerosols - (Spray paint, hairspray, air fresheners, lighter fluid, etc.) Individuals abusing these substances risk permanent damage to vital organs, and SSD due to cardiac arrhythmia and pulmonary collapse.
Nitrous oxide - Nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen provides effective analgesia for dental and medical procedures. Nitrous oxide is also used as a propellant for whipped cream and as a source of injected oxygen in the automotive industry. Nitrous oxide can be easily procured at restaurant supply stores. Another source is coffee specialty shops where teenagers often work and have easy access to nitrous oxide cartridges or "whippets." A "high" can be reached in less than 30 seconds when inhaling 50 to 75 percent nitrous oxide. Deaths have been reported when users attempt to achieve a higher state of euphoria by breathing higher concentrations or pure N2O in by placing their head inside a plastic bag. Long-term exposure (several minutes) is not necessary before death occurs.
The Compressed Gas Association, OSHA, and NIOSH are some reputable agencies that provide information on how to protect personnel from accidental exposure and how to prevent nitrous oxide abuse in the dental practice setting. (See Appendices)
Nitrites - Amyl nitrite (poppers) was once used to treat angina pectoris. Nitrites are abused to enhance sexual experiences. Combining "popper" use with Viagra has also been reported along with subsequent death of some individuals. 9
Studies have linked the chronic abuse of solvents to severe, long-term damage to the brain, the liver, and the kidneys.
Table 12: Inhalants |
General Effects
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- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness
- Slurred Speech
- Halitosis
- Eye Irritation
- Headache
- Tinnitus
- Chest pain
- Muscle weakness
- Permanent damage to nervous system
- Brain, liver, kidney, blood and bone marrow damage
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| Peri-oral signs |
- Chemical burns and/or sores around nose and mouth
- Colored areas (paint and other inhalants around nose and mouth)
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Method(s) of
Administration |
- Inhaling
- Bagging (inhaling fumes from a plastic bag or balloon) OR placing bag over head and releasing inhalant
- Huffing (stuffing an inhalant soaked rag into the mouth)
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| Withdrawal Symptoms |
Although psychological dependence is likely, no withdrawal symptoms occur when use is discontinued. |
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Depressants
