Volatile Solvent Abuse: Trends and Patterns

Abstract

The discussion of the patterns of volatile solvent (inhalant) use is hampered by definitional problems as well as characteristics that differ between users of solvents and other drugs. Existing data indicate that the use of solvents is increasing, both in the US and globally, that use is associated with poor socioeconomic conditions, and that the gap between male and female use is rapidly narrowing. A research agenda is proposed that will further knowledge about this poorly understood class of drugs.

Key Words:

• Drug use
• Inhalants
• Epidemiology
• Socioeconomic
• Gender