Associated names
Gas, Glue, Lighter Fluid, Thinners, Solvents, Hairsprays

 

Legal status
Use of these substances is not prohibited by law. It is an offence to knowingly sell them to persons under 18 for the purpose of intoxication.

 

Quality
With lighter fuel Butane is both the fuel and the expellant and so represents a pure source. With other substances the chemical is mixed with any number of others depending on the product.

 

Methods of use
Solid substances such as glue are usually placed in a bag, placed over the nose and mouth and the vapours are inhaled. Liquids are placed on material such as a cuff or a handkerchief and fumes are inhaled through the mouth. Gas products are inhaled after being sprayed into a closed room or, far more dangerously, directly into the mouth.

 

Effects
Onset of effect is almost immediate and has been described as very like being extremely drunk - i.e. lack of co-ordination, dizziness and disorientation. Nausea is not uncommon.

With further use the user may experience auditory and visual hallucinations, which might be very vivid indeed. Experiences can vary wildly and effects are largely unpredictable. Often after the effects have worn off (between 15 and 45 minutes) users can experience a 'hangover' effect - i.e. head and neck aches and chest pains.

 

Health implications
These substances represent a massive health threat - especially to the young people, who tend to be the predominant users.

At least one person dies from volatile substance abuse in this country every week, many among first time users. Death or serious injury is usually due to one of the following:

• Toxic reaction
• Heart Failure (especially after physical exertion soon after use) Palpitations and Arrhythmia are common.
• Suffocation/Asphyxiation - butane into the mouth can cause a swelling of the trachea.
• Unconsciousness and vomiting - therefore choking on own vomit.
• Volatile substances can damage the liver, lungs and kidneys and there is evidence that they impair brain function, especially memory and concentration abilities.