Inhalants

WHAT ARE INHALANTS?

Inhalants are substances inhaled through the nose or mouth that slow down the messages between the brain and the body. They are usually household chemicals such as volatile substances, aerosols, gases and nitrates.

OTHER NAMES:

Glue, gas, sniff, huff, chroming, poppers, nanging, spraying, paint snigging, glue sniffing, volatile substances. Also various product brand names such as “sellys all clear”.

UNDERSTANDING:

Many inhalants will have a strong, recognisable smell.

This can linger on the skin and clothing of a young person who has been using them. In the instance of a young person inhaling paint, the colour may temporarily stain their hands, mouth or nose.

Young people who have recently used inhalants may have lessened inhibitions, euphoria, dizziness, mood swings, aggression, vomiting and more rarely, blackouts.

The high is felt immediately and can last up to 45 minutes. Inhalants are commonly sprayed into a plastic bag or onto a towel or rag which is then held over the nose and mouth and vapours inhaled.

HOW TO SUPPORT A YOUNG PERSON:

It’s important to differentiate between low-level experimentation (sniffing school stationary in the classroom for example) and more problematic inhalant use.

As with all substance use amongst young people, problematic use is almost always a sign of psycho-social vulnerability. A young person who is using inhalants during lunchtime may appear disruptive, unfocused or withdrawn and ‘in their own world’.

Providing a calming, supervised environment would be an appropriate temporary measure.

Many inhalants are also useful household products. Excessive use of a product (such as deodorant) during adolescence does not necessarily mean a young person has a drug problem.

It is important to note that overdose and death can occur. Hallucinations, inability to be roused or woken are signs to call an ambulance immediately.

The risk of Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome (SDSS) is increased when a young person engages in physical activity after using inhalants.

In case of emergency put young person in recovery position, if in enclosed area allow fresh air in and call an ambulance.

For a more comprehensive guide we recommend the ADF’s fact sheet and Harm Reduction Victoria fact sheet.