The practice of 'glue-sniffing' was first observed in the UK in the 1950s but its origins are much older, dating at least as far back as the discovery of ether and chloroform in the nineteenth
century. These chemicals were soon being inhaled for effect. Currently, there are three major groups of chemicals which are abused:
liquid petroleum gases (LPGs) such as propane and butane, which are used in fuel for lighters and camping stoves,
solvents such as acetone, found in nail polish remover, typing correction fluid and dry cleaning fluid,
solvent-based glue.
Methods of Use There are two main routes of ingestion, depending which group of chemicals are being used. The LPGs are usually sprayed directly into the mouth and the gas inhaled deeply into the lungs. The other chemicals, and sometimes the LPGs, are usually sniffed from a handkerchief or from a container such as a milk bottle or plastic bag.
Effects of Solvents Solvents produce rapid and intense intoxication, slurring of speech, excitability and impairment of motor functions. Some users report auditory and visual hallucinations, often very intense and disorientat-ing. The effects are short-lived and wear off quickly once the user stops using.
Adverse Effects of Solvents Solvent use can cause nausea and vomiting. It may lead to unconsciousness, but the user usually regains consciousness very quickly when the solvent is excreted. The hallucinations can be vivid and frightening. Solvents can irritate the lung and throat lining and the resultant inflammation can lead to choking and death. Death can also occur through inhalation of vomitus if the user loses consciousness. A further cause of death may be cardiac arrest: solvents raise the heart rate by stimulating the release of adrenalin and the heart can become over-stimulated.
Long-term use can lead to impairment of brain function, especially to the motor centres, resulting in impairment of control of movement. Liver and kidney function can be damaged. Tolerance does occur with repeated use but other than psychologically there is little evidence of dependence.
