The Effects
- Users describe effects as like being drunk
- Short hit so dose needs to be repeated regularly
- Gives a ‘Hangover’ which includes a headache
- Some users may hallucinate
The Risks
- Nausea, blackouts, vomiting
- Fatal heart problems can occur the first time they used
- Gas products sprayed in the mouth can cause suffocation
- Long term use damages the brain, liver and kidneys
The Law
- Solvent misuse is not illegal
- It is illegal for shopkeepers to sell you substances they believe will be misused
- It is an offence to supply gas lighter refills to anyone under 18 years of age
Street Names
There are no particular street names but the following are some of the substances that can be abused
- Gas light refills
- Aerosols (containing hairspray, deodorants and air fresheners)
- Tins or tubes of glue
- Some paint thinners and correcting fluids
- Cleaning fluids
- Surgical spirits
- Dry-cleaning fluids and petroleum products
