 Abuse of inhalants has been documented since the 1800’s. Doctors and dentists who used ether and chloroform as anesthetics in their practices commonly abused these gases.  The 1 st mention of children abusing inhalants was in the early 1950’s- 2 boys sniffing gasoline fumes to achieve intoxication.

 Inhalants are usually liquids from which fumes or gases can be inhaled.  Examples include: correction fluid, glue, hair sprays, felt-tip markers, and varnish.

 Gaseous Anesthetics- have been used in medicine and surgery for many years. Ex: Nitrous oxide: one of the safest anesthetics when used properly. However, can cause suffocation when not used properly. Also found as a propellant in whipped cream.  Nitrates-Amyl nitrate and butyl nitrate. Sold under names such as ‘locker room’ and ‘aroma of men.’  Can cause rapid dilation of the arteries and reduce blood pressure to the brain; resulting in a period of faintness or unconsciousness.

 Nitrates are often used by homosexual males to enhance the sense of lightheadedness at orgasm.  Volatile Solvents- glues, cooking sprays, and correction fluid.  Generally used by cupping substance in hand or on handkerchief and inhaling.  Can cause suffocation, kidney damage, brain damage, and peripheral nerve damage.

 After huffing, user may appear disheveled.  May experience a rash around mouth or nose; including dry, cracked skin.  Eyes may appear irritated with pupils dilated.  Chronic users generally experience weight loss and appetite loss.  Can experience visual hallucinations and delusional behavior.  As the euphoric state wears off, users generally experience nausea, headaches, and mood swings.

 Chronic use may lead to brain damage and result in dementia.  Complications of use can include:  Cardiac arrythmias  Hepatitis and liver damage  Kidney damage  Visual Impairments  Bone marrow damage or leukemia

 Partial or permanent loss of muscle control  Personality changes  Memory impairment  Loss of coordination  Slurred speech  SSD-sudden sniffing death-a component of aerosol products causes a decrease in available oxygen in the body. If user becomes startled or engages in sudden physical activity, cardiac arrest may occur. When this occurs, death can happen within minutes.

 Most commonly Caucasian males between 12 and 14 y/o & typically of lower socio-economic classes.  Highest rates occur among adolescents in the 8 th grade, with 20% having tried Inhalants at least once.  According to the American Academy of Pediatricians, inhalant abuse has occurred in children as young as six.  Generally classified as a gateway drug.