Inhalants and solvents (chroming)

Inhalants are chemicals that produce vapours. 

They are found in common household items like paint, glue, deodorant or spray cans. If used inappropriately by deliberately inhaling, sniffing or "huffed" through the mouth or nose, it can result in feeling intoxicated or high.  

Forms of inhalants

  • Common household products- glue, paint and deodorant cans
  • Aerosols- sprays containing propellants and solvents including deodorant, hairspray and spray paints
  • Gases- medical anaesthetics, nitrous oxide in food catering products, also known as nangs, and fire extinguishers
  • Fuels- petrol and cigarette lighter gas
  • Nitrites-such as amyl, butyl and isobutyl nitrites 

Using inhalant products in ways other than directed is dangerous, especially for young people.  When inhaled, these chemicals enter the bloodstream and can quickly affect the brain. This can cause immediate impacts including: 

  • dizziness
  • headaches
  • nausea and vomiting
  • impaired coordination
  • blurred vision
  • shortness of breath, coughing
  • hallucinations and delusions
  • convulsions and coma
  • sudden cardiac events
  • death. 

Sudden sniffing death

Inhaling solvents can trigger sudden cardiac events and even death. This is an immediate risk from the first use and remains life threatening with each additional use. 

Long term inhalant use can cause damage to the: 

  • brain, nervous system
  • heart
  • liver
  • kidneys.  

It can also cause long-term memory, movement and learning problems for young people 

Young people may choose to chrome for many different reasons including: 

  • curiosity
  • managing anxiety and depression
  • the feeling of escaping reality
  • rebellion
  • peer pressure or social inclusion
  • heightening experiences. 

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation report 13% of Australian secondary students have deliberately sniffed inhalants in the past 12 months. 

Even though these products are common and easy to purchase, when used inappropriately they are dangerous.  

Parents, carers and teachers can learn to recognise the warning signs, such as: 

  • chemical smells on clothing
  • stains on fingers
  • irregular behaviour.  

Talking openly about the risks of inhalants can help prevent young people from trying them.

Other names for inhalants

Chroming, huffing, bagging, popper, gas, glue, rush, nangs 

In an emergency Call Triple Zero (000) or the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26. 

Call the Alcohol and Drug Information Service (1800 250 015) for free, confidential counselling in NSW.for free, confidential counselling in NSW. 

Visit NSW Health- Your Room or the Alcohol and Drug Foundation website for more information on inhalants.