What are the most dangerous volatile substances that can be inhaled?

Volatile substances are chemicals that can be inhaled to produce psychoactive effects, and they include common household and workplace products. Inhaling these substances can be very dangerous to the brain and body, and can lead to death even from a single use [2].

The most dangerous volatile substances include four main categories:

1. Solvents

Solvents are liquids that turn into gas at room temperature. This category includes items such as paint thinners, nail polish remover, gasoline, and glue. Inhaling them can lead to serious neurological effects and long-term damage to vital organs [2].

2. Aerosol Sprays

This category includes products like spray paint, deodorant sprays, and cooking oil sprays. These sprays contain chemicals that can cause harmful effects when inhaled, affecting the central nervous system [2].

3. Gases

Gases include lighter gas, whipped cream chargers, and laughing gas. These gases can cause immediate and dangerous effects on the brain and respiratory system [2].

4. Nitrites (Poppers)

Nitrites are chemicals often sold in small bottles and marketed under names like "air freshener" or "leather cleaner." Although sometimes used to enhance sexual function, inhaling or ingesting them can cause serious injury or death. Risks include a severe drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, seizures, irregular heartbeats, coma, and death [3].

General Health Risks

Most volatile substances affect the central nervous system and slow down brain activity. Short-term effects include slurred speech, loss of coordination, euphoria, dizziness, and hallucinations. Long-term effects may include liver and kidney damage, loss of coordination, spasms in the arms and legs, delayed behavioral development, and brain damage [2].

Using volatile substances, even once, can lead to an overdose that may cause seizures or cardiac arrest, which can result in death [2].

What to do if you are concerned?

If you suspect that someone is using volatile substances or suffering from a substance use disorder, it is important to seek help. Signs may include chemical odors on the breath or clothing, paint or other substance stains on the face or hands, or hidden empty containers. Drug screening tests can help assess the risks and determine an effective treatment plan [1].

If you are experiencing serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, or loss of consciousness, you must seek emergency care immediately [3]. For more information on the risks of inhalant abuse and its prevention, you can visit Risks of Inhalant Abuse: A Guide to Prevention and Treatment (Arabic).

Medical references

• Inhalants
• Ingesting or Inhaling Nitrite "Poppers" Can Cause Severe Injury or Death
• Drug Use Screening Tests