The Dangerous use of Inhalants among Teens: a Case Report

Abstract

The recreational use of inhalants among teenagers and other vulnerable individuals is a growing cause of concern for clinicians. Products, such as computer dusters and spray cleaners containing highly toxic compounds, such as difluoroethane, are being used to obtain immediate euphorizing effects with significant health risks. We provide an overview of this new drug trend in combination with a case report of a 14-year-old girl with a previous psychiatric history, who was admitted at the Addiction Treatment Unit (Ser.D) in Trento (Italy) after a period of inhalant abuse. The lack of literature in the field suggests the need for further investigations on such hazardous practices and more targeted prevention approaches aimed at informing adolescents, their parents and clinicians working with them.