Inhalant
Inhalant
Inhalant (pronunciation: /ɪnˈheɪlənt/) refers to a broad range of household and industrial chemicals whose volatile vapors or pressurized gases can be concentrated and breathed in via the nose or mouth to produce intoxication (intoxication), similar to alcohol.
Etymology
The term "inhalant" is derived from the Latin word "inhalare" which means "to breathe in".
Types of Inhalants
Inhalants can be categorized into four groups:
- Solvents - These are typically used in products such as paint thinners, dry-cleaning fluids, gasoline, and glue.
- Aerosols - These are sprays that contain propellants and solvents, including spray paints, deodorant and hair sprays, vegetable oil sprays for cooking, and fabric protector sprays.
- Gases - These can be found in household or commercial products, including butane lighters and propane tanks, whipped cream aerosols or dispensers (whippets), and refrigerant gases.
- Nitrites - These are special-purpose inhalants used primarily as sexual enhancers.
Health Effects
Inhalants are extremely toxic and can damage the heart, kidneys, lungs, and brain. Even a healthy person can suffer heart failure and death within minutes of a single session of prolonged sniffing of an inhalant.
Treatment
Treatment for inhalant abuse is available and may involve counseling, medication, and supportive services. It is important to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to inhalants.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Inhalant
- Wikipedia's article - Inhalant
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