Solvents

Solvents

• 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 yrs of age

Street Names

There are no particular street names but the following are some of the substances that can be abused

• Gas lighter refills
• Aerosols (containing Hairspray, Deodorants and Air Fresheners)
  Tins or tubes of glue
• Some Paints Thinners and correcting fluids
• Cleaning fluids
• Surgical Spirit
• Dry-cleaning fluids and petroleum products