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Inhalant abuse by adolescents: a new challenge for Indian physicians
Debasish Basu1, Om Prakash Jhirwal, Jaspreet Singh
1Drug De-addiction & Treatment Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India. db_sm@satyam.net.in
Indian Journal of Medical Sciences
|July 1, 2004
Summary
Inhalant abuse, particularly among adolescents, is a growing global concern. This case series highlights the challenges in diagnosing and treating inhalant dependence, often involving toluene-based products, with supportive care being the primary approach.
Area of Science:
- Addiction Medicine
- Public Health
- Adolescent Psychiatry
Background:
- Inhalant abuse is a significant global health issue, particularly affecting young populations.
- Limited literature from India suggests a potential knowledge gap among healthcare professionals regarding this problem.
Observation:
- A series of five cases of inhalant abuse is presented to explore this public health concern.
- Most cases initiated inhalant abuse during adolescence.
- Typewriter erasing fluid and thinner, containing toluene, were the primary abused substances.
Findings:
- Inhalant abuse was driven by easy accessibility, low cost, rapid onset, and euphoric effects.
- While features of inhalant dependence were present, no physical withdrawal symptoms were observed.
- Diagnosis relies heavily on clinical judgment due to the difficulty in identification.
Implications:
- Increased awareness and education are crucial for healthcare professionals in India to address inhalant abuse.
- Understanding the unique presentation of inhalant dependence, including the absence of physical withdrawal, is vital for accurate diagnosis.
- Supportive treatment strategies are recommended for individuals with inhalant abuse and dependence.