Inhalant Use and Intoxication
Inhalants are dangerous substances that people breathe in through the nose or mouth to get high. They include gases, sprays, and chemicals that are not intended for use in this manner. Many inhalants are sold legally in stores like gas stations, vape shops and head shops, even though they are not safe for human use.
Alternative names
Whip-its; Poppers; Huffing; Sniffing; Laughing gas
Description
Inhalants can include:
- Nitrous oxide (also called 鈥渓aughing gas鈥� or 鈥渨hip-its鈥�)
- Compressed air dusters (often labeled as 鈥渃leaning spray鈥�)
- Other chemicals found in glues, paint thinners and aerosols
Nitrous oxide is sometimes sold in small silver canisters intended for use with whipped cream dispensers. These are easily bought at gas stations and smoke shops, even by teens. Duster sprays used to clean electronics are also misused this way. These products are not regulated and are not intended for inhalation.
Symptoms
Inhalants can affect the brain quickly and can cause a person to feel lightheaded, dizzy or out of control. Some may feel high for a short time, but the risks are serious and can happen even with one use.
Common symptoms of inhalant intoxication include:
- Headache, confusion or slurred speech
- Loss of coordination or passing out
- Nausea or vomiting
- Trouble breathing
Risks
Inhalants can cause long-term damage to the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys. Using them can lead to sudden death from heart failure, suffocation, or seizures 鈥� even in healthy young people. In some cases, long-term use can result in nerve damage that causes conditions like 鈥渄rop foot鈥� syndrome, where individuals have difficulty lifting the front part of the foot. Inhalant use can also lead to unconsciousness and, in severe cases, death due to a lack of oxygen.
Because these products are sold legally, many people believe they are safe. However, inhalant use is hazardous, especially for teens and young adults. Most of these products are not regulated for recreational use, and their effects on the body can be deadly.
Treatment for inhalant use
Seeking help for inhalant use is crucial and can prevent serious long-term health issues. While there is no specific medication to treat inhalant addiction, behavioral therapy and counseling can be very effective.
Treatment may include:
- Family counseling to improve communication and support
- Group therapy or support groups
- Medical care if there are health problems caused by inhalant use
- Talking with a counselor or therapist
Some people may need to stay in a treatment center, especially if they鈥檝e used inhalants for a long time or have other mental health concerns.
Early treatment is key. The sooner someone gets help, the better the chances of full recovery. If you or someone you care about is using inhalants, talk to a doctor, school counselor or treatment center right away. Help is available, and recovery is possible.
Recovery and outlook for unhalant Users
Recovery from inhalant use is possible, especially with the proper support. Many people who stop using inhalants go on to live healthy, drug-free lives. The recovery process may take time and often includes counseling, support from loved ones and building new habits.
The outlook depends on several factors, such as:
- How long and how often inhalants were used
- Getting early treatment and follow-up care
- Support from family, school and community
- Whether there was damage to the brain, lungs, heart or other organs
Some people may have memory problems, trouble concentrating or mood changes after quitting. These symptoms can improve with time, therapy and a healthy lifestyle. The earlier someone stops using inhalants, the better their chances of full recovery. With help, support and education, people can heal and move forward with their lives.
When to contact a medical professional
If you or someone you know is using inhalants to get high, seek help right away. Consult with a doctor, school counselor or treatment center. Breathing in chemicals is never safe 鈥� even once 鈥� and the risks can be life-threatening.
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This entry was written by Jennifer Cruz-Urbano, marketing specialist, and reviewed for accuracy by Rachel Waters, Manager Regional Business Development, and David Fields, Executive Director FRC. Generative AI was leveraged as part of the content creation process.