Question- I have been using cannabis for the past five years and recently I have started to combine my cannabis use with sniffing gas. I just really wanted to know how harmful sniffing gas is, as I have recently been told by my friends gas that use is dangerous if used incorrectly.

LO

Answer- Sniffing gases glues and aerosols (Volatile Substance Abuse) is one of the most, if not the most dangerous ways of getting intoxicated. Research carried out by St Georges Hospital Medical School shows that in the United Kingdom in 2001, 63 people, mostly young men, died as a result of inhaling gases glues or aerosols.

All drug use carries with it some risk, though the health risks associated with drugs such as cannabis are quite small, sniffing volatile substances is always dangerous, it can kill the first time you try it or the thousandth time, it is never safe.

My advice to you would be to stop sniffing volatile substances immediately. If you feel as though you need help giving up contact one of the organisations listed below where you can get help and advice.

Lifeline Solvents Resource Group 01254 677493

Frank National Dugs Helpline 0800 77 66 00