Abuse Inhalants (Shelton) Flashcards
What is a heterogeneous grouping of compounds which are defined only by their route of administration?
inhalants
What are some use-based categories of inhalants?
- Volatile solvents
- Aerosols
- Volatile anesthetics
- Nitrites
- Nitrous oxide
- Refrigerants
What group is most likely to abuse inhalants and why?
Children because they are cheap, easy to get a hold of, and are uncontrolled products
What are the most common inhalants abused?
Glue, shoe polish, toluene (paints, lacquers, solvents)
Demographically, who does inhalants?
Young rich white kids (both males and females)
What are some physical signs of inhalant abuse?
- Chemical odor on breath
- Spots or sores in or around the mouth
- Rhinorrhea
- Red, irritated eyes
- Perioral dermatitis
What are some general signs of inhalant abuse (some of these are repeats with the “physical signs of inhalant abuse question)?
- Chemical odor on breath or clothes
- Paint stains on face, hands, or clothes
- Hidden empty solvent containers or soaked rags / clothing
- Lack of coordination
- Disoriented apperance
- Slurred speech
- Inattentiveness
What are the five steps of absorption, distribution and elimination of inhalants?
- Inhalants are breathed in
- Vapors are absorbed through the lungs
- Substance gets absorbed into the bloodstream
- Drug travels to brain and other tissues in the body
- Primary route of elimination is exhalation
What are some acute behavioral effects of inhalants?
- Depressant-like intoxication
- Omnipotent feelings
- Loss of consciousness possible
What is the administration of inhalants?
By definition they are inhaled (duh!)
What is the absorption of inhalants?
Their high lipid solubility results in rapid absorption
What is the distribution of inhalants?
- Easily cross the BBB and placental barrier
2. Distribution may be selective
How are inhalants metabolized and excreted?
- Metabolized by the liver (the main exception being nitrous oxide)
- A large percentage are excreted unchanged through exhalation
Inhalants have what effect on GABA-A?
Increase transmission of GABA-A
What effect do inhalants have on NMDA receptors?
Inhibit transmission on NMDA