Top 38 Slang For Inhalants – Meaning & Usage

Inhalants, a category of drugs that are commonly abused for their mind-altering effects, have their own set of slang terms that can be difficult to decipher. But fear not, because we’ve got you covered. In this listicle, we’ve compiled the top slang words for inhalants, so you can stay in the know and understand the language surrounding these substances. Whether you’re curious or concerned, this article will provide you with the knowledge you need to navigate this complex topic. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the world of inhalant slang.

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1. Huffing

Huffing refers to the act of inhaling or breathing in the fumes or vapors of certain substances, typically chemicals or solvents, to achieve a high or altered state of mind. It is a form of substance abuse and can have dangerous and harmful effects on the body and brain.

  • For example, “Some individuals resort to huffing household cleaning products for a quick high.”
  • A concerned parent might say, “I found empty aerosol cans in my child’s room, indicating they might be huffing.”
  • A news report might warn, “Huffing can lead to serious health issues and even death, so it’s important to recognize the signs and seek help if someone you know is engaging in this behavior.”

2. Dusting

Dusting refers to the act of inhaling or “huffing” compressed air or other substances found in computer cleaners or dusters. It is a form of inhalant abuse and can have harmful effects on the body and brain.

  • For instance, “Some individuals engage in dusting to experience a brief high or altered state of mind.”
  • A concerned friend might say, “I noticed empty computer cleaner cans in my friend’s trash, indicating they might be dusting.”
  • A warning label on a computer cleaner might state, “Intentional misuse by inhaling the contents may be harmful or fatal.”

3. Bagging

Bagging refers to the act of inhaling or “huffing” certain substances by placing them in a plastic bag and then inhaling the fumes or vapors. It is a method of inhalant abuse and can lead to dangerous effects on the body and brain.

  • For example, “Some individuals resort to bagging solvents or chemicals to achieve a temporary high.”
  • A concerned teacher might say, “I found plastic bags with residue in a student’s backpack, indicating they might be bagging.”
  • A public service announcement might state, “Bagging can cause serious health problems, including damage to the brain, heart, and other organs.”

4. Sniffing

Sniffing refers to the act of inhaling or “huffing” certain substances through the nose, typically by holding the substance close to the nostrils and breathing in the fumes or vapors. It is a common method of inhalant abuse and can have harmful effects on the body and brain.

  • For instance, “Some individuals engage in sniffing markers or aerosol sprays to experience a quick high.”
  • A concerned parent might say, “I noticed my child constantly sniffing household products, indicating they might be engaging in inhalant abuse.”
  • A health professional might warn, “Sniffing can lead to serious health complications, including damage to the respiratory system and brain.”

5. Glue-sniffing

Glue-sniffing refers to the act of inhaling or “huffing” the fumes or vapors of certain types of adhesive glue. It is a form of inhalant abuse and can have dangerous effects on the body and brain.

  • For example, “Some individuals engage in glue-sniffing to experience a euphoric or hallucinogenic effect.”
  • A concerned teacher might say, “I caught a student sniffing glue in the school bathroom.”
  • A public awareness campaign might state, “Glue-sniffing can lead to addiction, brain damage, and even death, so it’s important to educate young people about the dangers of this behavior.”

6. Whippets

Whippets refer to the inhalation of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. Nitrous oxide is a colorless gas with a sweet odor that is used as a mild anesthetic and analgesic. Whippets are often inhaled from small canisters using a balloon or whipped cream dispenser.

  • For example, “Let’s do some whippets and have a good laugh.”
  • A user might ask, “Where can I buy whippets for recreational use?”
  • Someone might warn, “Be careful with whippets, as excessive use can be dangerous.”

7. Poppers

Poppers are a type of inhalant that contain amyl nitrite, a chemical compound. They are typically sold in small bottles and are inhaled directly from the bottle or by inhaling the fumes through a cloth. Poppers are known for their relaxing and euphoric effects, as well as their ability to enhance sexual experiences.

  • For instance, “I love using poppers during intimate moments.”
  • A user might share, “Poppers helped me relax and relieve stress.”
  • Someone might ask, “Are poppers legal to use in my country?”

8. Vaping

Vaping refers to the act of inhaling and exhaling vapor produced by an electronic cigarette or similar device. It involves heating a liquid (often containing nicotine) into a vapor, which is then inhaled. Vaping has gained popularity as an alternative to traditional smoking, with some users using it as a means to quit smoking.

  • For example, “I’ve been vaping for a year and haven’t touched a cigarette.”
  • A user might post, “Check out this new flavor I’m vaping.”
  • Someone might ask, “What’s the best vape pen for beginners?”

9. Gas-huffing

Gas-huffing refers to the act of inhaling volatile chemicals, such as gasoline or aerosol sprays, to achieve a high or altered state of consciousness. This dangerous practice can lead to serious health consequences and even death. Gas-huffing is often associated with substance abuse and is considered a form of inhalant abuse.

  • For instance, “He was caught gas-huffing behind the gas station.”
  • A user might share a cautionary tale, “I knew someone who died from gas-huffing.”
  • Someone might ask, “What are the signs of gas-huffing addiction?”

10. Chroming

Chroming refers to the practice of inhaling paint fumes to achieve a high or altered state. This dangerous behavior involves inhaling the volatile chemicals present in spray paint or other paint products. Chroming can have serious health consequences, including damage to the brain, lungs, and other organs.

  • For example, “He was caught chroming in an abandoned building.”
  • A user might share a personal experience, “I used to engage in chroming, but I’ve since quit.”
  • Someone might ask, “What are the long-term effects of chroming?”

11. Dust-off

Dust-off is a brand name for a specific type of compressed gas duster that is commonly abused as an inhalant. The term “dust-off” is often used to refer to any brand of compressed gas duster used for inhalant abuse.

  • For example, “He was caught using dust-off to get high.”
  • A concerned parent might say, “I found a can of dust-off in my child’s room and realized they were abusing inhalants.”
  • In a discussion about the dangers of inhalant abuse, someone might mention, “Dust-off is one of the most commonly abused inhalants.”

12. Whiteout

Whiteout is a brand name for a specific type of correction fluid that is commonly abused as an inhalant. The term “whiteout” is often used to refer to any brand of correction fluid used for inhalant abuse.

  • For instance, “He was addicted to whiteout and would inhale it to get high.”
  • A teacher might notice a student with whiteout stains on their clothing and suspect inhalant abuse.
  • In a conversation about the dangers of inhalant abuse, someone might mention, “Whiteout can cause serious health problems when inhaled.”

13. Rushing

The term “rushing” is often used to describe the intense high or euphoria experienced when inhaling certain substances. It refers to the rapid onset of the effects of inhalant abuse.

  • For example, “He was addicted to inhalants and would chase the rush.”
  • Someone discussing the allure of inhalant abuse might say, “The rush you get from inhaling can be addictive.”
  • In a conversation about the dangers of inhalant abuse, a recovering addict might describe the rush as “intense but fleeting.”

14. Bagging out

The term “bagging out” is often used to refer to the practice of inhaling volatile substances by placing them in a bag and then placing the bag over one’s mouth and nose. It is a common method of inhalant abuse.

  • For instance, “He was caught bagging out in the school bathroom.”
  • A concerned friend might say, “I found him bagging out and knew he needed help.”
  • In a discussion about the signs of inhalant abuse, someone might mention, “The smell of chemicals on clothing can be a sign that someone is bagging out.”

15. Ballooning

Ballooning refers to the practice of inhaling nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, from a balloon. Nitrous oxide is commonly used as an inhalant for its euphoric and dissociative effects.

  • For example, “They were caught ballooning at a party.”
  • A person discussing the recreational use of nitrous oxide might say, “Ballooning can produce a brief but intense high.”
  • In a conversation about the dangers of inhalant abuse, someone might mention, “Ballooning can lead to oxygen deprivation and other serious health risks.”

16. Puffing

Puffing refers to the act of inhaling or breathing in the fumes or vapors of a substance, typically for the purpose of getting high. It is commonly used to describe the inhalation of inhalants such as solvents, aerosols, or gases.

  • For example, “He was caught puffing on a can of spray paint in the alley.”
  • A concerned parent might say, “I found empty cans of air freshener in my child’s room, they must be puffing.”
  • A health professional might warn, “Puffing can have serious health consequences and should never be taken lightly.”

17. Nitrous

Nitrous refers to nitrous oxide, a colorless gas commonly used as a dental anesthetic. It is also used recreationally as an inhalant to produce a euphoric or dissociative effect. Nitrous is often referred to as “laughing gas” due to its tendency to induce laughter or giggling.

  • For instance, “She attended a party where people were inhaling nitrous from balloons.”
  • A user might describe their experience, “I tried nitrous for the first time and it made everything feel so surreal.”
  • A health educator might explain, “Nitrous can be dangerous if misused and can lead to oxygen deprivation and other health risks.”

18. Rush

A rush refers to the intense and immediate sensation or feeling that occurs after inhaling certain substances. It is often described as a head rush due to the sudden and powerful effect it has on the head and brain.

  • For example, “After inhaling the fumes, he experienced a rush of euphoria.”
  • A user might say, “I love the rush I get from huffing aerosols.”
  • A health professional might warn, “The rush from inhalants can be addictive and can lead to serious health problems.”

19. VCR cleaner

VCR cleaner is a slang term used to refer to certain inhalants that are commonly found in household products, such as cleaning solvents or aerosols. These substances are often misused as inhalants to achieve a high or altered state of consciousness. The term “head cleaner” is used because these inhalants can have a strong and immediate effect on the head and brain.

  • For instance, “He was caught using VCR cleaner as an inhalant.”
  • A user might ask, “Where can I buy head cleaner?”
  • A health professional might explain, “Using VCR cleaner as an inhalant is extremely dangerous and can cause serious harm to the brain and body.”

20. Gasoline

Gasoline, also known as petrol, is a flammable liquid commonly used as fuel for vehicles. However, it is sometimes misused as an inhalant to achieve a high or altered state of consciousness. In this context, it is referred to as a slang term for inhalants.

  • For example, “He was found huffing gasoline behind the gas station.”
  • A user might say, “I prefer inhaling gasoline for a quick high.”
  • A health professional might warn, “Inhaling gasoline is extremely dangerous and can cause serious health complications, including organ damage and even death.”

21. Petrol

Petrol is a slang term used to refer to gasoline, which is a fuel commonly used in automobiles. It can also be used as an inhalant to produce a euphoric effect.

  • For example, someone might say, “I heard he was huffing petrol behind the gas station.”
  • In a discussion about substance abuse, a person might mention, “Inhalant abuse, such as petrol sniffing, can have serious health consequences.”
  • A warning might be issued, “Inhaling petrol fumes can be extremely dangerous and even fatal.”

22. Airplane glue

Airplane glue is a slang term for model glue, which is a type of adhesive used in model making. It contains chemicals that can produce a euphoric effect when inhaled.

  • For instance, someone might say, “He was caught sniffing airplane glue in the school bathroom.”
  • In a discussion about the dangers of inhalant abuse, a person might mention, “Airplane glue is a commonly abused substance among teenagers.”
  • A warning might be given, “Inhaling airplane glue can cause serious damage to the brain and other organs.”

23. Computer duster

Computer duster, also known as dust-off, is a product that is typically used to clean electronic equipment. It contains compressed gas, which can be abused as an inhalant to produce a high.

  • For example, someone might say, “He was addicted to computer duster and would go through multiple cans a day.”
  • In a discussion about substance abuse, a person might mention, “Inhalant abuse, such as using computer duster, is a growing concern.”
  • A cautionary statement might be made, “Abusing computer duster can lead to serious health problems and addiction.”

24. Freon

Freon is a slang term used to refer to refrigerants, which are chemicals used in cooling systems such as air conditioners and refrigerators. Inhaling freon can produce a hallucinogenic effect.

  • For instance, someone might say, “He was caught huffing freon from the air conditioner.”
  • In a discussion about the dangers of inhalant abuse, a person might mention, “Inhaling freon can cause severe damage to the lungs and other organs.”
  • A warning might be given, “Abusing freon can be extremely dangerous and even deadly.”

25. Ether

Ether is a slang term used to refer to diethyl ether, which is a colorless liquid that can produce a euphoric effect when inhaled. It has a long history of recreational use and is also used as a solvent.

  • For example, someone might say, “He was found passed out after huffing ether.”
  • In a discussion about the risks of inhalant abuse, a person might mention, “Ether can cause dizziness, confusion, and even loss of consciousness.”
  • A cautionary statement might be made, “Inhaling ether is extremely dangerous and can lead to addiction and serious health problems.”

26. Dust

This term refers to the drug phencyclidine (PCP), which is a hallucinogenic substance that can be inhaled. It is commonly referred to as “angel dust” in slang.

  • For example, someone might say, “I heard he got arrested for smoking dust.”
  • In a conversation about drug use, a person might ask, “Have you ever tried angel dust?”
  • A warning might be given, “Stay away from angel dust. It can have dangerous effects on your mind and body.”

27. Bag

In the context of inhalants, “bag” refers to a small bag or balloon filled with a substance that can be inhaled to achieve a high. It is commonly used as a container for inhalants.

  • For instance, a person might say, “He was caught with a bag of gas.”
  • In a discussion about drug paraphernalia, someone might mention, “Balloons are often used to hold inhalants.”
  • A warning might be given, “If you see someone with a bag, be cautious. It could contain dangerous substances.”

28. Gas

In the context of inhalants, “gas” refers to nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas. It is commonly used as an inhalant to induce euphoria and laughter.

  • For example, someone might say, “They were inhaling gas at the party.”
  • In a conversation about recreational drugs, a person might ask, “Have you ever tried laughing gas?”
  • A cautionary statement might be made, “Abusing gas can have serious health consequences.”

29. Petrol sniffing

This term refers to the act of inhaling the fumes of petrol (gasoline) to achieve a high. It is a form of substance abuse that can have harmful effects on the body.

  • For instance, someone might say, “He was caught huffing petrol behind the gas station.”
  • In a discussion about drug addiction, a person might mention, “Petrol sniffing is a dangerous habit.”
  • A warning might be given, “Huffing petrol can lead to brain damage and other serious health issues.”

30. Glue

This term refers to the act of inhaling the fumes of glue to achieve a high. It is a form of substance abuse that can have harmful effects on the body.

  • For example, someone might say, “He was caught sniffing glue in the school bathroom.”
  • In a conversation about drug abuse, a person might ask, “Have you ever heard of glue sniffing?”
  • A cautionary statement might be made, “Glue sniffing can cause serious damage to the brain and other organs.”

31. Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a colorless gas that is often used as an anesthetic. It can also be abused as an inhalant to induce feelings of euphoria and disorientation.

  • For example, “Some people use nitrous oxide at parties to experience a brief high.”
  • In a discussion about drug abuse, someone might mention, “Nitrous oxide is a commonly abused inhalant.”
  • A user might post, “I tried nitrous oxide for the first time and it was a wild experience!”

32. Whippits

Whippits refers to small metal canisters that contain nitrous oxide gas. These canisters are typically used to charge whipped cream dispensers, but they can also be used as an inhalant to achieve a short-lived high.

  • For instance, “Some people misuse whippits to get a quick buzz.”
  • In a conversation about inhalant abuse, someone might say, “Whippits are easily accessible and can be dangerous if misused.”
  • A user might share, “I’ve heard stories of people passing out from using too many whippits in a short period of time.”

33. Popping

Popping is a term used to describe the act of inhaling or sniffing volatile substances, such as aerosol sprays or solvents, to achieve a high or altered state of mind. It is a slang term commonly associated with inhalant abuse.

  • For example, “Some individuals engage in popping to experience a temporary feeling of euphoria.”
  • In a discussion about drug addiction, someone might mention, “Popping is a dangerous behavior that can lead to serious health consequences.”
  • A user might ask, “What are the signs of someone who is popping?”

34. Snapping

Snapping, also known as huffing, refers to the act of inhaling or sniffing volatile substances, such as glue or paint thinner, to achieve a high. It is a slang term commonly used to describe inhalant abuse.

  • For instance, “Some individuals engage in snapping to escape reality or experience hallucinations.”
  • In a conversation about substance abuse, someone might say, “Snapping can have serious detrimental effects on a person’s physical and mental health.”
  • A user might share their personal experience, “I used to struggle with snapping, but I’ve been clean for a year now.”

35. VCR head cleaner

VCR head cleaner, also known as video head cleaner, is a product used to clean the video heads of VCRs. However, it can also be misused as an inhalant to achieve a brief high. The term is a slang reference to the product’s intended use.

  • For example, “Some individuals misuse VCR head cleaner as an inhalant due to its chemical properties.”
  • In a discussion about inhalant abuse, someone might mention, “VCR head cleaner is one of the commonly abused products.”
  • A user might ask, “What are the potential dangers of using VCR head cleaner as an inhalant?”

36. Glue-guzzling

Glue-guzzling refers to the act of inhaling glue fumes to achieve a high or intoxication. It is a dangerous practice that can have serious health consequences.

  • For example, “Some teenagers engage in glue-guzzling to experience a cheap and easily accessible high.”
  • A concerned parent might say, “I found out my child has been glue-guzzling, and I’m worried about their health.”
  • A health professional might warn, “Glue-guzzling can lead to brain damage and organ failure, and it should never be taken lightly.”

37. Huffing freon

Huffing freon involves inhaling the gas found in air conditioning systems to achieve a euphoric or hallucinogenic effect. It is a dangerous practice that can cause severe harm to the body and brain.

  • For instance, “Some individuals engage in huffing freon to experience a temporary high.”
  • A concerned friend might say, “I caught my friend huffing freon, and I immediately sought help for them.”
  • A substance abuse counselor might advise, “Huffing freon can lead to heart problems, brain damage, and even death. It’s crucial to intervene and seek professional help.”

38. Dusting off

Dusting off refers to the act of inhaling compressed air or other aerosol products, typically used for cleaning or dusting, to achieve a brief high or altered state of consciousness. It is a dangerous practice that can have immediate and long-term health consequences.

  • For example, “Some individuals engage in dusting off to experience a momentary euphoria.”
  • A concerned teacher might say, “I caught a student dusting off in the school bathroom, and I immediately alerted the administration.”
  • A medical professional might warn, “Dusting off can cause sudden sniffing death syndrome and serious damage to the brain, lungs, and other organs. It’s crucial to educate and intervene.”
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