

Maryland Inhalant Addiction Treatment
Understanding Inhalant Addiction
Inhalants are a broad category of substances that produce psychoactive effects when their fumes are inhaled. These substances, often found in common household products, are frequently used recreationally for the “high” they produce. Some examples include solvents, aerosols, paints, glues, and cleaning agents. The fumes from these products contain volatile chemicals that affect the central nervous system, producing euphoria, lightheadedness, or even hallucinations. Inhalant abuse is commonly referred to as “huffing.”
Inhalant addiction typically begins when someone uses inhalants to get high or to escape from stress, emotional pain, or other difficult circumstances. Because these substances are often easily accessible and inexpensive, they are sometimes used impulsively or in social settings. Unfortunately, repeated use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Over time, a person may feel compelled to use inhalants more often, resulting in dangerous patterns of abuse and physical harm.
Common Street Names for Inhalants:
- “Huff”
- “Whippets” (for nitrous oxide)
- “Poppers” (for alkyl nitrites)
- “Rush” (for amyl nitrite)
- “Gluey” or “Shoe” (for glue)

What Are Inhalants?
Inhalants are a group of substances that produce chemical vapors which, when inhaled, cause psychoactive effects on the brain and central nervous system. These substances are often readily available, inexpensive, and legal, which can make them particularly appealing to individuals seeking a quick and easy way to achieve a euphoric high.
Inhalants can be found in everyday household products, such as paints, glues, cleaning supplies, and aerosols. Some of the most common inhalants include solvents (like paint thinners and nail polish removers), gases (like nitrous oxide, commonly known as “whippets”), and aerosols (such as spray paints and deodorants). These products contain volatile chemicals that, when inhaled, can produce immediate effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and euphoria. The inhalation process itself is referred to as “huffing” when substances are inhaled directly from a container or “bagging” when the substance is inhaled from a bag or cloth soaked in the substance. The effect of inhalants is typically short-lived, but repeated use can result in significant physical and psychological consequences.
Why Do People Use Inhalants?
People may turn to inhalants for several reasons, most notably for the quick, intense “high” they can provide. Inhalants are often perceived as an easy and cheap alternative to other substances like alcohol or marijuana. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to experimenting with inhalants due to peer pressure or curiosity, often trying them in social settings or when they are looking for an escape.
Huffing Inhalants (a common term for inhaling these substances) typically causes an immediate euphoric effect, which may be perceived as pleasurable. However, the effects are short-lived and can be dangerous, especially when used repeatedly. Many users also seek the feelings of lightheadedness or dissociation that accompany the use of inhalants.

Are Inhalants Addictive?
Inhalants can be highly addictive. While some users may begin using them casually, over time, they can develop a tolerance to the effects, requiring more frequent use to achieve the same high. This can lead to physical and psychological dependence, where the person feels unable to stop using inhalants despite the harmful consequences. Long-term use can result in permanent damage to the brain, liver, kidneys, and other organs, making recovery difficult but possible with the right treatment.
- According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), more than 2.1 million Americans aged 12 or older have reported using inhalants for non-medical purposes.
- Inhalant use is most common among adolescents, with 4% of 8th graders admitting to having tried inhalants at least once in the last year.
- Regular inhalant use can lead to long-term health problems, including brain damage, hearing loss, and nerve damage.
Dangers of Inhalant Addiction
Inhalants are incredibly dangerous due to their toxic nature. When inhaled, the chemicals in these substances can deprive the body of oxygen, leading to suffocation or permanent brain damage. Long-term use can result in severe damage to the heart, liver, kidneys, and nervous system. Inhalants can also cause sudden sniffing death syndrome, where a person dies unexpectedly from heart failure or asphyxiation after inhaling a large amount.
The dangers of inhalant addiction go far beyond the physical harm caused by the substances themselves. Addiction to inhalants can lead to severe cognitive impairments, including memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and emotional instability. Social consequences can also be devastating, affecting relationships, education, and employment. Inhalant addiction often co-occurs with other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, complicating the recovery process.
Symptoms of Inhalant Withdrawal
Withdrawal from inhalants can be uncomfortable and even dangerous without professional help. Symptoms of withdrawal may include:
Anxiety or Depression
One of the most frequent emotional responses during inhalant withdrawal is heightened anxiety and depression. The individual may feel intense worry, restlessness, or a sense of impending doom. Depression can manifest as feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. These symptoms are often exacerbated by the brainโs inability to produce chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, which were artificially elevated during inhalant use.
Irritability
Irritability and mood swings are common as the personโs body and mind detox from the chemicals in inhalants. This can be frustrating for both the individual going through withdrawal and their loved ones, as the person may have trouble controlling their emotions. In some cases, irritability can be extreme and accompanied by frustration or aggression.
Nausea and Vomiting
Physical symptoms of withdrawal from inhalants can include nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress. These symptoms are the body’s way of reacting to the absence of the harmful substances that were regularly inhaled. As the body detoxifies, it may struggle to process food or fluids as usual, leading to discomfort.
Sweating
Sweating is another common withdrawal symptom, particularly excessive or night sweats. The bodyโs autonomic nervous system becomes out of balance during withdrawal, and as a result, the body may overcompensate by producing more sweat. This can be uncomfortable and leave the person feeling fatigued and dehydrated.
Insomnia
Many individuals experience difficulty sleeping during inhalant withdrawal. Insomnia may be due to anxiety, restlessness, and the brainโs adjustment to functioning without the chemicals it had grown accustomed to. Poor sleep can increase feelings of irritability and make it harder for the person to function throughout the day.
Muscle Weakness or Tremors
The physical strain of inhalant withdrawal can also lead to muscle weakness or tremors. The person may feel weak, shaky, or uncoordinated. These symptoms are signs that the body is struggling to restore its balance after the prolonged use of a substance that interferes with nerve and muscle function.
What to Expect From Inhalant Addiction Treatment
At Ashley Addiction Treatment, we recognize that each individualโs experience with addiction is unique. Our comprehensive treatment approach addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of inhalant addiction. We combine evidence-based treatments with personalized care to create a plan that works for each individual. Our team of experts offers various therapeutic options, including counseling, detoxification, and aftercare services, to support long-term recovery.
Counseling for Inhalant Addiction Treatment
Counseling plays a critical role in helping individuals understand the underlying reasons for their inhalant use and how to develop healthier coping strategies. At Ashley Addiction Treatment, we offer several counseling modalities:
- Individual Therapy: One-on-one counseling sessions allow individuals to explore the personal and emotional factors contributing to their addiction and work on building the skills needed to overcome them.
- Group Therapy: Group therapy provides a supportive environment where clients can share their experiences, gain insight from others, and learn how to interact in healthy ways.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns that lead to substance use, replacing them with healthier ways of thinking and behaving.


Inpatient Inhalant Rehab in Maryland
For individuals in need of more intensive support, inpatient rehab offers a structured, immersive environment where clients can focus entirely on their recovery. Our inpatient treatment program provides 24/7 care, which is essential for those who need to manage severe withdrawal symptoms or who may be at high risk for relapse. Inpatients engage in a variety of therapeutic activities, including individual counseling, group therapy, and holistic practices to support mental, physical, and emotional healing.
Outpatient Stimulant Rehab in Maryland
For those who may not require the level of intensity provided by inpatient care, outpatient treatment is a flexible option that allows clients to receive care while continuing to live at home and attend to daily responsibilities. Outpatient programs offer therapy, counseling, and support groups during the day or evening, allowing individuals to work toward recovery while maintaining a connection with their community.

Supporting Your Entire Recovery
At Ashley Addiction Treatment, our goal is to provide comprehensive, personalized care to support individuals through every stage of their recovery from Inhalant addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with Inhalant addiction, contact us today to learn more about our treatment options and begin the journey to a healthier, drug-free life. Please reach out to our helpline, available 7 days a week, at 1-800-799-HOPE (4673), or contact us here for more information on how we can help.