Inhalants

Examples of Inhalants Technical Name of Drug Common Names of Drug Amyl Nitrites Alkyl Nitrites Nitrites or Nitrates Poppers Bold Rush Snappers Volatile Solvents Art Supplies Nail polish remover Sharpies Spray paint Paint thinner Aerosols and Gases Nitrous Oxide Febreze Glade Laughing Gas Gas Source: https://teens.drugabuse.gov/drug-facts/inhalants

Amyl nitrite: is related to the nitrate medicines and is used by inhalation to relieve the pain of angina attacks. It works by relaxing blood vessels and increasing the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart while reducing its workload.It is also used for other medical conditions determined by the doctor On the street, this medicine and others like it are sometimes called "poppers." They have been used by some people to cause a "high" or to improve sex. Another terms for poppers are called "rush" and “DVD cleaners” . Once you inhale it it gives you a rush that takes a matter of seconds to get you high and takes up to 3 minutes. Use in this way is not recommended. Amyl nitrite can cause serious harmful effects in the brain.

Inhalants Effects on the Body Amyl nitrate most commonly prescribed by cardiologist for heart disease. When abused it can have long term and damaging effects to the heart, brain and kidneys. It has been know to relax muscles and at times cause asphyxiation. Aerosol sprays (huffing)effects on the body are heart failure and in extreme cases death within the first time use of repeatedly abusing the product. There have been reports of the following alo occuring: slurred speech, memory loss and depression. source:https://www.drugfreeworld.org/drugfacts/inhalants/how-do-inhalants-affect- your-body.html

Legal and Social Issues Joshua Kirk Legal and Social Issues Legal Issues: Inhalants aren’t regulated under the Controlled Substances Act, though thirty-eight states in the United States have placed restrictions on the sale and distribution to minors of certain products that are commonly abused as inhalants. Some states have introduced fines, incarceration or mandatory treatment for the sale, distribution, use and/or possession of inhalant chemicals. Social Issues: Issues are found for users who develop little to no social competence outside their circle of friends with whom they use inhalants and other drugs. Their development impedes into young adulthood and in all arenas of life, which they’re not equipped for later becoming responsible adults, capable of dealing with and deciding upon larger life issues and thus rely on Inhalants some more. Sources: Foundation for a Drug-Free World, https://www.drugfreeworld.org/drugfacts/inhalants/are-they-legal.html / The Good Drugs Guide, https://www.thegooddrugsguide.com/inhalants/effects.htm

Are Inhalants Addictive? The quick and simple answer is yes Inhalants can be physically and psychologically addictive

Route of Administration Inhalants can be breathed in through the nose or the mouth in a variety of ways, such as- "sniffing" or "snorting" fumes from containers; spraying aerosols directly into the nose or mouth; "bagging" — sniffing or inhaling fumes from substances sprayed or deposited inside a plastic or paper bag; "huffing" from an inhalant-soaked rag stuffed in the mouth; and inhaling from balloons filled with nitrous oxide. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/inhalants/how-are-inhalants-used

Reasons why the drug is used: Amyl nitrite: Used to relieve pain and for angina attacks. Also used to treat heart diseases and as an antidote for cyanide poisoning. Angina: Type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. Air freshener, Sharpies & Spray paint: Used to feel high and has similar effects as alcohol, including slurred speech, dizziness and lack of coordination. Some users like the effect of hallucinations.

Consequences to Inhalant Abuse Inhalant abuse can cause permanent brain damage that can lead to irreversible neurological deficits. Damages to major organs, such as liver, kidneys, heart, and lungs Addiction Sources: https://deserthopetreatment.com/drug-abuse/administration-methods/inhaled/ https://americanaddictioncenters.org/inhalant-abuse/side-effects