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Other Drugs

Solvents

Introduction to Solvents

Solvents or inhalants give off a vapour or fumes at room temperature.

The most common inhalants and solvents are:
  • adhesives
  • thinners
  • petrol aerosol sprays
  • gas
  • paint
  • anti-freeze, and
  • amyl and butyl nitrates.
Solvent use in New Zealand is not widespread.

However, from time to time some communities identify small groups of young people using solvents. For most young people solvent use is a short-term activity.

According to the Drug Use in New Zealand Survey 1998 (APHRU), two percent of males and one percent of females have used inhalants over the last year.

This number is attributed to the use of amyl nitrates by 20-30-year-olds. Only one percent of 14-19 year olds report ever using solvents.

Health Effects

Solvents are depressants and are readily absorbed into the brain and central nervous system.

These substances are stored in fat deposits, particularly in the brain, causing long-lasting effects. Health effects include:
  • hallucinations
  • intoxication
  • lack of inhibitions
  • drowsiness
  • disorientation
  • lack of co-ordination
  • nausea and diarrhoea
  • agitation.
After effects include depression, hangover-type symptoms, memory loss and uncharacteristic behaviour.

Long-term effects include:
  • weight loss
  • anaemia
  • sores around the mouth and nose
  • tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
  • unconsciousness
  • seizures
  • angina.
Each year there are around three deaths due to Sudden Death Syndrome associated with solvent abuse.

The greatest risk of solvent use is heart or breathing failure.

Dependence Potential

Repeated exposure to solvents causes tolerance and regular users may become psychologically dependent.

Psychological dependence occurs when using a drug becomes more important than other activities in a person's life.

A person who becomes dependent on a drug may find it difficult to cut down or stop using.

Although some withdrawal symptoms may persist for several days, solvents are not thought to cause physical dependence.

Treatment

Experience shows that most solvent users give up of their own accord.

However, with a psychologically dependent person, counselling and measures to address the pathways which may contribute to solvent use such as alienation, family problems and boredom may have a positive impact on usage.



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