Drug Abuse at Sea:

Gases, glues and aerosols (solvents)

Description

Solvents are substances that are inhaled to get 'high'. They include glue, lighter fuel, petrol and aerosols. The product used is often determined by availability and some products also contain more dangerous chemicals.

Administration

Sniffed or breathed into the lungs from a cloth, sleeve or bag. Gas products are sometimes squirted directly into the back of the throat.

Associated Equipment

None.

Degree of Addiction

	Psychological addiction:	moderate
	Environmental addiction:	none to slight
	Physical addiction:	none to slight
	Body tolerance:	none to slight

Influence and Symptoms

The effects of sniffing solvents are similar to those of alcohol and may bring on light-headedness, giddiness and a sense of adventure and in larger doses confusion, drowsiness and feeling out of control. The effects do not usually last longer than half an hour.

Inhaling solvents can cause nausea, vomiting, blackouts, headaches and heart problems that can be fatal. Squirting gas products down the throat may cause the body to release fluids that floods the lungs, causing instant death. Long term abuse can damage the brain, liver and kidneys.

Popular Myths

Fiction:	Solvents are no worse than alcohol
Fact:	Long term abuse can damage the brain, liver and kidneys