Inhalant Use: Reasons, Risks, and Getting Help

Inhalants are volatile substances (solvents, aerosols, gases, nitrites) inhaled for psychoactive effects. People use them for varied reasons:

• Curiosity/experimentation (especially adolescents)
• Peer pressure to fit in
• Escapism from stress, trauma, or mental health struggles
• Enhancement of social events (parties, concerts)
• Self-medication for untreated anxiety, depression, or pain
• Addiction: Repeated use can lead to physical/psychological dependence

Serious Health Consequences

• Brain damage (white matter loss, cognitive deficits)
• Respiratory depression, asphyxiation
• Cardiac arrhythmias, sudden sniffing death syndrome
• Liver, kidney, bone marrow toxicity
• Peripheral neuropathy

Inhalant misuse is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know is using inhalants, contact a healthcare provider, SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP), or local addiction services immediately.