Assignment #9
1. Inhalants are classified as volatile substances that generate chemical vapors, which after inhaled produce a mind altering effect. The category of inhalants consists of a broad range of chemicals including: volatile solvents, gases, aerosols, and nitrates. The different forms of inhaled substances can be found commonly in industrial, medical, and household products. According to the Monitoring The Future Survey conducted in 2016, there is a significant decrease in inhalant use amongst 8th, 10th and 12th graders. This study reported 7.7% of eighth graders, 6.6% of 10th graders, and 5% of 12th graders reported using volatiles at least once in their lifetimes. The 2015 National Survey of Drug Use and Health compared four different age groups including 12 and older, age 12-17, age 18-25, and age 26 or older, who used inhalants within the past month. The results of the survey revealed that approximately 527,000 people age 12 and older are currently using inhalants. Compared to other age groups, adolescents aged 12-17 were most likely to have abused inhalants within the last month. These volatile substances are attractive for recreational use because they are easily attainable and for the most part inexpensive. …show more content…
Benzene can be found in certain types of detergents, pesticides, drugs, lubricants, rubbers, and dyes. Once inhaled benzene is rapidly absorbed and widely distributed. Benzene is highly lipophilic and readily crosses the blood brain barrier allowing it to accumulate into the brain. Users experience a feeling of euphoria, headache, and dizziness. Some of the adverse effects of benzene use include serious damage to the bone marrow, toxicity to the reproductive system, impaired immune system, and there is an increased risk of