Inhalants - Reactions with Other Drugs or Substances

Reactions with Other Drugs or Substances

When users combine inhalants with other drugs, the risks to their health are increased. For instance, alcohol slows the breakdown of toluene in the blood, thus raising the concentration of the solvent in the user's body. Cocaine can boost the chance of fatal irregular heart rhythms. Huffing correction fluid while taking Ritalin can kill. The stimulating effects of Ritalin dramatically increase the risk of SSD in users who combine these substances. Nitrites used in combination with the sexual-performance-boosting drug Viagra can also be deadly. Plus, because of the flammability of most inhalable substances, fires may result when they are used near an open flame or a lit cigarette.

Ignorance Is Not Bliss

A common problem among inhalant abusers is their lack of awareness about the dangers and effects of their habit. Convincing users of the risks of sniffing and huffing can be quite difficult. Many see no connection between their addiction to inhalants and any social, behavioral, or academic problems they might have. In addition, many parents are not aware of the signs of inhalant abuse.

"To reverse this alarming trend," stated NIDA director Dr. Nora D. Volkow, "NIDA will be working with CADCA [Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America] and other partners to educate parents, children and others" about the risks of inhalants. "We'll also use the Internet to inform the public about inhalant abuse." Volkow encourages readers to log onto NIDA's Web site for the latest information on inhalants at www.inhalants.drugabuse.gov.