Glue Sniffing

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Abstract
THE USE of industrial solvents and aerosol sprays to achieve an intoxicated state would seem an undesirable way to arrive at an alteration of consciousness. Nevertheless, a number of juveniles experiment with or habitually use these substances by inhalation. In some cities, the endemic abuse of model-airplane glue, paint thinner, gasoline, solvents, or propellants is well known. The volatile substances are generally aliphatic hydrocarbons, sometimes chlorinated or fluorinated. Inhalation provides rapid access to the brain via the lungs, assuring immediate onset of action and relatively short duration of effects. Classification Classification of solvents is difficult because household and commercial products may have unknown formulations, which need not be chemically pure. In addition, they may contain ingredients that are more toxic than the solvent itself. For example, habitual gasoline sniffing has resulted in lead poisoning. Aerosols may propel a spray of insecticide, furniture polish, or other noxious material. The number of