Illegal Drugs - Student Booklet

20 effects of inhalants Most inhalants have an immediate effect andusually only give ahigh for a fewminutes. Users sometimes keep on sniffing to prolong the high— in some cases this can lead to loss of consciousness, brain damage, and even death. Effects of inhalants vary, but may include: inhalants what are they ? Inhalants, also known as volatile substances or solvents, are substances that are sniffed or breathed in through the nose and/or mouth to give the user an immediate high. There are four main types of inhalants: Type Examples Volatile solvents Paint thinners, glues, petrol, correction fluid Aerosol sprays Deodorants, hairsprays, spray paints Gases Nitrous oxide (laughing gas), propane, fire extinguishers Nitrites Room deodorisers, leather cleaner My son was sniffing aerosols . not all the time but now and then . He was at my sister ’ s house and he inhaled an air freshener . He passed out and went into cardiac arrest which killed him instantly . —Natalie, 41 immediate long term • Increased heart rate • Feeling light headed and dizzy • Loss of inhibitions • Agitation • Loss of coordination and balance • Irritation to the eyes, nose and throat • Aggressive behaviour • Slurred speech • Headaches • Confusion and drowsiness • Nausea and vomiting • Hallucinations (e.g. seeing or hearing things that aren’t really there) • Suffocation • Seizures • ‘Sudden sniffing death’ syndrome Inhaling these substances can cause heart failure within a few minutes • Dependence (addiction) • Brain damage • Tremors • Problems breathing • Loss of hearing and vision • Increased risk of leukaemia from petrol sniffing • Damage to the immune system, bones, nerves, kidney, liver, heart, and lungs