Also known as sniffing, huffing, chroming, poppers, nangs, bagging, rexing, rush, climax, ram, thrust, heart-on, jungle juice aroma
Inhalants are volatile substances, which have chemical fumes that sometimes are breathed in to alter the mind and get a “buzz” or feeling of excitement. They are usually a depressant drug, though some inhalants (nitrates) act as a dissociative. Inhalants can be everyday products, such as:
Inhalants are breathed in by the nose or mouth. Examples of use:
Effects of inhalants
Effects depend on the person (age, weight, size, health and tolerance), as well as the strength, the amount used, type of inhalant and if used with other drugs, including alcohol. Most inhalants have an immediate effect. The “high” usually only lasts for a few minutes – some will keep on inhaling to prolong the high, sometimes leading to loss of consciousness, brain damage or rarely sudden death.
Short-term effects, both desired and undesired, may include…
Long-term effects may include…
Effects from overdosing: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, hallucinations, blackout, seizures and unconsciousness. Sudden death has been known to occur as a result of inhalants causing heart failure but this is rare.
If a person is experiencing an overdose or is unresponsive call 000 for an ambulance. If unconscious, put them in the recovery position. If not breathing, start CPR. Paramedics won’t involve police unless the person is a danger to themselves or others.
There is no safe way to use inhalants. There will always be a health risk. The only way to be safe is not to use. If you choose to use, the following will help reduce risk:
Before: take a friend and tell them what you plan on using
During: go slow, don’t inhale too much, do it outside (not in a small area like a toilet cubicle), know and keep to your limits, don’t spray directly into your mouth or place a plastic bag over your entire head – these methods can cause suffocation.
Avoid: using inhalants with other drugs, including alcohol, using too much or too often. While using don’t be alone, don’t drive or do risky activities or be responsible for the care of others.
It may be a problem if you agree with any of these statements:
While not illegal to use inhalants in Australia, police are authorised to remove inhalants and related equipment and to place young people into the care of a responsible person. Supplying an inhalant to a person for the purpose of inhalation is illegal in all Australian states and territories, except for the ACT. The ACT has no legislation relating to inhalant use.
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In an emergency, call an ambulance: 000
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
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Alcohol & Drug Information Service: 1800 177 833
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