More than half a million American teens are using inhalants. A doctor explains the dangers

More than Half a Million American Teens Experiment with Inhalants, Study Finds

More than half a million American – Emerging trends on social media platforms are contributing to a growing concern over inhalant use among U.S. teenagers. These substances, often found in everyday household and commercial items, are being inhaled for their mind-altering effects, with nitrous oxide—commonly referred to as laughing gas—being a notable example. A recent analysis published in the journal *Preventive Medicine* estimates that over 500,000 adolescents in the United States have engaged in inhalant use within the past year. This figure highlights a significant and rising public health issue, particularly as the practice becomes increasingly normalized through online communities.

What Are Inhalants, and Why Are Teens Attracted to Them?

Dr. Leana Wen, a CNN wellness expert and former health commissioner of Baltimore, explains that inhalants are chemicals that induce altered states of consciousness when inhaled. These include gases, sprays, and solvents such as glue, shoe polish, paint thinner, and aerosol products. Nitrous oxide, which is used in medical settings for sedation and pain relief, is also frequently abused by teens. Its availability in everyday items like whipped cream dispensers and its ability to produce a quick, intense high make it particularly appealing to younger users.

“Inhalants are easy to access, inexpensive, and often perceived as safe because they are common household products,” Wen said. “This misconception can lead teens to underestimate the risks, especially when they’re influenced by peers or online trends.”

Study Reveals Widespread Inhalant Use and Risk Factors

According to the latest study, the prevalence of inhalant use among adolescents is higher than previously anticipated. Data collected from over 33,700 participants between 2021 and 2023 showed that 2.2% of teens reported using inhalants in the past year. While this percentage may seem modest, it translates to more than half a million teenagers, indicating a substantial and growing problem. Additionally, 0.7% of adolescents used inhalants in the past month, and 0.3% met the criteria for inhalant use disorder, a condition characterized by severe impairment or distress due to frequent misuse.

Interestingly, the study found that younger teens, aged 12 to 13, are more likely to engage in inhalant use compared to older adolescents aged 14 to 17. Dr. Wen noted that this trend is not unexpected, as inhalants are often the first substances experimented with by teenagers due to their ubiquity and ease of access. The research also identified correlations between inhalant use and other risky behaviors, such as physical fights, theft, and tobacco consumption.

“Adolescents who engage in multiple risky behaviors are more prone to inhale these substances,” Wen explained. “This clustering of behaviors suggests that inhalant misuse is not an isolated issue but part of a broader pattern of risk-taking among teens.”

Demographic Variations in Inhalant Use Patterns

The study further revealed disparities in inhalant use across different racial and ethnic groups. While White adolescents had the highest rates of past-year use, Black teens were less likely to report inhalant use compared to their peers. Conversely, Native American and Alaska Native adolescents exhibited higher odds of developing inhalant use disorder, a finding that the researchers attribute to social and structural factors. Asian adolescents, on the other hand, were less likely to meet the criteria for disorder.

Dr. Wen emphasized that these differences do not diminish the risk for any group. “Even teens who appear to be thriving academically or participating in structured activities can still be vulnerable to inhalant misuse,” she said. “The key is recognizing that these substances can be misused in unexpected ways, regardless of a child’s background.”

Health Risks Associated with Inhalant Use

The immediate effects of inhaling substances like nitrous oxide can include euphoria, hallucinations, and a sense of dissociation. However, these benefits come with serious consequences. Short-term risks include dizziness, nausea, and respiratory distress, which can be exacerbated by repeated or prolonged use. In some cases, adolescents may experience loss of consciousness or even cardiac arrest, particularly if they inhale large quantities in a short time.

Long-term inhalant use poses additional dangers, such as damage to the nervous system, brain function, and internal organs. Chronic exposure can lead to memory loss, motor skill impairment, and mental health issues like anxiety or depression. Dr. Wen highlighted that the body’s ability to recover from these effects varies, and the impact can be irreversible in severe cases.

“The short-term risks are often overlooked because the high is immediate,” Wen said. “But the long-term consequences can be profound, affecting cognitive development and physical health for years.”

Why Inhalant Misuse Matters for Parents

Parents may not always recognize the signs of inhalant abuse, especially since the substances are commonly found in homes. Dr. Wen warned that the perception of safety is a major factor in their use. “Teens might believe that because these items are used for legitimate purposes, they are harmless,” she said. “But the reality is that even common products like glue or cleaning fluids can be extremely dangerous when misused.”

Moreover, the study underscores the importance of monitoring behavior beyond academic performance. “Inhalant use can occur alongside other activities, so it’s crucial to stay informed about how teens are using these substances and what triggers their experimentation.”

Addressing the Crisis: Prevention and Awareness

Experts stress that education and early intervention are essential to combating the rise of inhalant use. Dr. Wen recommended that parents and caregivers familiarize themselves with the substances their children might encounter, such as nitrous oxide cartridges and aerosol cans. She also urged schools and healthcare providers to incorporate discussions about inhalants into drug education programs. “By raising awareness and highlighting the risks, we can help teens make more informed choices,” she said.

Additionally, addressing the social dynamics that drive inhalant use is critical. The study points to the role of peer influence and online trends in shaping teen behavior, suggesting that targeted campaigns to counteract these influences could reduce misuse. As the popularity of “Galaxy Gas” and other inhalant-related slang grows, it becomes increasingly important to equip families with the knowledge needed to identify and respond to this hidden form of substance abuse.

“Inhalants are a gateway to other substances, and their use can set the stage for more serious addiction later,” Wen added. “Parents need to be proactive, not assuming that their children are immune to the effects of these chemicals simply because they seem to be doing well.”

Conclusion: A Call for Collective Action

The findings from the *Preventive Medicine* study serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in adolescent substance use. While inhalants may seem like a harmless alternative to traditional drugs, their impact on health and behavior can be significant. With over half a million teens at risk, the need for increased awareness, education, and prevention strategies has never been more urgent. By addressing the root causes of inhalant misuse and fostering open conversations about their dangers, parents, educators, and healthcare professionals can work together to protect the next generation from this hidden threat.