The Threat of InhalantsAmerica’s most accessible drug

What are inhalants?

“Inhalants are volatile substances that produce chemical vapors that can be inhaled to induce a psychoactive, or mind-altering effect”

Though other substances can be inhaled, those classified as inhalants are rarely taken through other methods (injection, smoking, etc.)

What substances are involved?

1. Volatile Solvents • Liquid at room temp.• Examples: paint

thinner, gasoline, and correction fluid

2. Aerosols• Sprays that contain

propellants• Examples: spray

paint, vegetable oil sprays for cooking, air fresheners

3. Gases• Gases used in

household products or in medical settings

• Examples: ether, nitrous oxide (whipped cream dispensers), butane lighters

4. Nitrites• Least common – are

prohibited by the Consumer Product Safety Commission

• Examples: leather cleaner, and video head cleaner

Dusting Dangers

What are the hazards?

Source: National Institutes of Health Publication Number 10-3818

Dangers of Inhalant Abuse

What are some the signs?

Chemical odors or stains on breath or clothing

Reddened, irritated eyes and rash around the mouth

Sneezing and sniffling

Hidden empty containers (such as spray paint cans)

Hidden chemical-soaked rags or clothing

Slurred speech and unsteady coordination

Nausea or loss of appetite

Headaches and dizziness

Irritability

Depression

Inattentiveness

How do I keep my child safe?

Talk to your children about drug abuse early.

Inhalants are often the easiest and first options for abuse2008 survey by the University of Michiganfound highest rates of inhalant use among school aged children appears in the 8th grade (see right).

Reports on Jenkem

Is this report true?Most now regard Jenkem as a hoax

“There have been reports that Jenkem does indeed provide a high for inhabitants of the world's poorest countries,” but is highly unlikely that we will see widespread use in the U.S. (Haines).

Parents should be aware of current drug trends, but make sure that facts are valid.

Good sources of information include:-- National Institute on Drug Abuse www.nida.nih.gov -- Partnership for a Drug Free America www.drugfree.org

SourcesNational Institutes of Health. National Institute on Drug Abuse. Publication Number 10-3818. Revised July 2010.

Haines, Lester. “Schools warned of chilling 'Strawberry Meth' menace.” The Register Online. 5 March 2008. http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/03/05/strawberry_meth/

YouTube. FOX 19 News - "Dusting Dangers." 1 Dec. 2006. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCTht3vQGUk&feature=related

YouTube. The Dangers of Inhalant Abuse - :60 PSA. 16 Nov. 2006. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSWt8UMRsdY&feature=related

YouTube. Fox News Reports on Jenkem. 7 Nov. 2007 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UsNbsjpuLc