Drugs

A Guide for Addicts, Youths and Parents Alike.

 

 

Up Cocaine Amyl Nitrate Tranquillisers Cannabis Heroin Ecstasy Amphetamines Acid Magic Mushrooms Solvents

Solvent Abuse

Street Names; Sniffing

What is it? Solvent abuse is the deliberate inhalation of gases, chemical fumes or vapours in order to get a "high" or "buzz" similar to the intoxication produced by alcohol. Solvents are chemicals which change from liquid form into gases or vapours at ordinary room temperatures. A variety of terms are used to describe the practice such as "glue sniffing", "solvent abuse or, technically, "Volatile Substance Abuse" (VSA). The term "glue sniffing" has been widely used in the media but is inaccurate for two reasons; firstly, a wide range of solvent-containing materials is used and secondly the material is not sniffed but actually inhaled deeply through the nose and mouth into the lungs. In this publication the term "Solvent Abuse" will be used throughout. While the invo]vement of young children and teenagers is a recent worrying trend, the use of chemical vapours and fumes to obtain a drug experience is believed to go back to pre-historic times.

The Highs; These include feelings of dizziness, euphoria, laughter and sometimes hallucinations. Effects last for up to an hour after inhalation.

The Lows; Sniffing can make the user feel sick and drowsy. More seriously, solvent abuse can kll. Heart failure is possible; users may choke on their own vomit or suffocate with their head inside a glue bag. There have been several tragic deaths through solvent abuse in this country in recent years.

Signs of use; Redness round mouth / nose. Smell from clothes. Excessive use of product. Effects wear off quickly (20 mins.) so it can be difficult to detect.

Addiction; Psychological dependence possible.