Solvents

Last Updated on Monday, 28 September 2009 10:39

Drugs and Alcohol

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Solvent is the name given to some chemical-based products, such as spray paints, glue, petrol and lighter fluid. The most common chemical ingredient found in many solvents is toluene. Deliberately inhaling solvent vapours or fumes from these products is often called 'solvent use' or 'solvent abuse', or is known as 'glue sniffing' or 'bagging'.

Why Solvents can be Dangerous:

Some solvents are more dangerous than others, but it's very hard to tell which ones. There are some types that can cause death instantly by blocking the airways, causing vomiting and suffocation (asphyxiation) or heart failure.
As well as these risky types of solvents, there are other hazards associated with solvent use.

First up, solvents are highly inflammable (meaning that it doesn't take much for them to explode or ignite). Solvents should never be used in a confined space, or near a naked flame, fire or lit cigarette.

Second, solvent use can make you more prone to accidents. People using solvents shouldn't drive cars under the influence, and they should be really careful in dangerous areas, such as on the road and near open fires.

Third, intentional injury (hurting yourself deliberately) has been linked to some solvent use.
The most risky types of solvents include petrol, gas products, fire extinguishers and spray products. It's best to remember that all solvents can be dangerous.

What Does Solvent Use Do to You?

Solvents are depressants and are readily absorbed into the brain and central nervous system. They are stored in fat deposits, particularly in the brain. Some of the effects of solvent use include:
hallucinations
intoxication
drowsiness
disorientation
lack of co- ordination
nausea and diarrhoea
agitation 
breathing problems
loss of menstruation
nose bleeds
aggression / violence
stomach cramps
short term memory loss
The most common effects of solvents are euphoria, feeling drunk, loss of inhibitions, and hallucinations. These effects vary according to the type of solvents you use, and whether or not they have been mixed with any other drugs.

Although most people experience the same effects from solvent use, there may be some variation depending on the product being used, whether the person is healthy or not, when they last ate, their weight and height.

The effects of solvent use can last longer in some people than others.