Inhalant abuse

Pediatrics. 2007 May;119(5):1009-17. doi: 10.1542/peds.2007-0470.

Abstract

Inhalant abuse is the intentional inhalation of a volatile substance for the purpose of achieving an altered mental state. As an important, yet-underrecognized form of substance abuse, inhalant abuse crosses all demographic, ethnic, and socioeconomic boundaries, causing significant morbidity and mortality in school-aged and older children. This clinical report reviews key aspects of inhalant abuse, emphasizes the need for greater awareness, and offers advice regarding the pediatrician's role in the prevention and management of this substance abuse problem.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Inhalation
  • Adolescent
  • Anesthetics, Inhalation / poisoning
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Illicit Drugs / poisoning*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / diagnosis
  • Substance-Related Disorders / mortality*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / prevention & control*

Substances

  • Anesthetics, Inhalation
  • Illicit Drugs