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Solvent Abuse UK

Solvents can be found in various household products such as aerosol cans containing deodorants, hairspray or air fresheners, gas lighter refills, paints, thinners and correcting fluids, cleaning fluids, surgical spirits, and tins or tubes of glue. All of these items can of course be bought legally, however, it is illegal to sell solvents to someone under the age of 18 if it is suspected, or known, that the product will be abused. The vapours from these products are inhaled into the lungs and have effects similar to alcohol. They can be sniffed from a sleeve, cloth or a plastic bag.

There are a range of chemicals in the substances used for solvent abuse and this can result in different effects when inhaled. Generally, users have likened the experience to being drunk, causing them to feel dizzy, giggly, dreamy, and uninhibited. Depending on the dose and what’s being inhaled, a user may hallucinate. The effects do not last very long, no more than 45 minutes. For this reason, users will often continually repeat the dose in order to prolong the high. Inhaling solvents can cause some to feel nauseous or even vomit, while headaches and drowsiness are possible after-effects, as is the development of a red rash around the mouth.

There is no evidence to suggest that inhaling solvents can result in the user becoming physically dependent, although it is possible to develop a psychological dependence. A user can become tolerant to the effects after only 2-3 days of repeated use.

Inhaling solvents is extremely dangerous and can kill, even if trying it for the first time. Should you become unconscious, there is a risk of death through choking on vomit, or suffocating if inhaling with a bag over the head. Once high, a person’s judgement can be impaired, leading to reckless behaviour and possible accidental death or injury. Spraying gas products down the throat can result in instant death as it can cause the throat to swell, making it impossible to breathe. Moreover, there is evidence to suggest that long-term solvent abuse can damage the brain, liver and kidneys.