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Different TypesThere are two main types of drugs which are inhaled apart from powdered drugs which are "snorted". These are solvents, which as the name suggests are based on chemical solvents and poppers which are a group of drugs called alkyl nitrates. Solvents Solvents are volatile substances, which means that they give off a vapour and evaporate when in contact with air. Form Most commonly this is thought of as "glue sniffing", but glue is just one type of product that contains solvents. Some Aerosols, correcting fluid and even nail polish are often "sniffed". Desired Effects The initial hit from sniffing solvents can be felt almost instantaneously and lasts about half an hour. People feel a sense of euphoria, and disconnection, this is similar to being very drunk. Heart rate and breathing increase which tends to produce a light headed or giddy effect. this can lead to problems with balance or standing up. Some people report feeling happy, dreamy or excited and continued use leads to hallucinations. Also reported are feelings of invincibility. Administration Generally the chemical to be sniffed is poured onto a cloth or into a plastic bag and then sniffed from it. Some users spray aerosols straight into their mouth. Addictive Potential Not physically addictive, although tolerance does develop, this tends to relate to reduce absorption through tissue damage. Psychologically addictive Withdrawal is characterised by anxiety, depression and nervousness Dangers  The hallucinations caused by solvents can cause serious injury and sometimes death. Bad trips are reported with both visual and audio hallucinations. Accidents involving burns, motor vehicles, drowning and suffocation are unfortunately common.
The poisons or toxins in the chemicals can damage the heart kidneys and liver
Solvents tend to cause the body to produce a lot of adrenaline and can be dangerous to people with heart problems or defects.
The spraying of aerosols into the throat is very dangerous as it causes freezing which can stop breathing.
Undesired Side Effects Repeated or ongoing use causes:- Skin rashes from irritation around the nose and mouth. Hangover, headaches and tiredness Weight loss and shakes Short-term memory loss Mood swings and depression Most side effects clear up quickly once drug use stops although long terms damage to the heart, kidneys and liver are possible. Harm Reduction Not using solvents is the safest option. If you do choose to use solvents: Use them with a group so that your friends can help you if you get breathing difficulties, become unconscious or have an accident.
Do not spray aerosols down your throat, the risk of complications is high. Its safer to spray aerosols into a cloth and inhale them.
Do not place plastic bags over your head. Whilst hallucinating you may well suffocate.
PoppersThis is a group of fast acting drugs of which amyl nitrate, isobutyl nitrate, butyl nitrate and butyl chloride are the most common. These chemicals are volatile at room temperatures which means that they evaporate and are also inflammable. Form Often labeled as room odourisers, leather preservative or video head cleaner the majority of these substances are legal to sell and possess in New Zealand, with the exception of amyl nitrate and butyl nitrate which are prescription medicines and illegal to possess without a prescription. (prescribed to hunters and trappers as an antidote to cyanide poisoning). Poppers tend to be used as a sexual or dance party accessory. Fresh poppers smells sweet and fruity whilst the stale chemical smells like old socks. Desired Effects A burst of energy is reported by most users and a head rush, this last from 30 seconds to a few minutes dependant on the strength and freshness. Light headedness occurs after the initial rush because heart rate increases and blood pressure is reduced. This can lead to dizziness and loss of balance. Some users report a sense of time slowing down The disorientation causes a lowering of sexual inhibition and men generally become more sexually aroused. Administration Generally sold through sex and adult shops in small brown bottles, common brand names include "Rush" "red-X" "liquid gold" "Ram" "Stud" etc. the top is removed from the bottles and the vapour inhaled. Alternately may be tipped into a cloth and inhaled. Some shops sell inhalers with wicks to produce a more constant flow of vapour without spillage. Addictive Potential Not physically addictive Low potential for psychological addiction Withdrawal can be characterised by headaches amongst some users, depending on the actual chemical composition. Dangers Poppers can be very dangerous when mixed with blood pressure reducing medications. In particular, in view of its sexual context poppers are very dangerous when taken with Viagra TMand may lead to heart seizures. For this reason poppers should be avoided by people with a heart or blood pressure condition.
Poppers can be very dangerous if swallowed
Poppers are sexual disinhibiter and sexual arouser, you are more likely to have sex, so you should be aware of this and ensure that you have condoms and other safer sex supplies to hand.
Long term use can result in suppression of the immune system which reduces resistance to infections and may be dangerous for people with immune problems such as HIV infection.
The body metabolises nitrates into nitrosamines , which are carcinogenic
Undesired Side Effects Hangovers and headaches are a common side effect after using poppers Poppers are also problematic for people with respiratory problems and can cause shortness of breath and chest infections if used heavily. Poppers also burn skin and tissue if spilt and regular use can lead to skin burns around the nose and mouth particularly with chloride varieties. Harm Reduction Not using poppers is the safest option If you do choose to use poppers: Don't keep taking more hits - poppers generally don't improve with volume.
If you spill poppers on your skin run cold water over the area for a few minutes.
If swallowed, give sips of cold water or milk, do not try to vomit.
Do not smoke whilst using poppers, its very flammable.
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