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Volatile substances

Introduction

VOLATILE SUBSTANCES are central nervous system (CNS) depressants and are chemical compounds that rapidly change from a liquid, or semisolid state to vapour when exposed to air.

Volatile substance use is the deliberate inhalation of vapour given off from a substance at ambient temperature to alter consciousness or cause intoxication.

Volatile substance use may be:

For more information about Volatile Substances, refer to the chapter from the Handbook for Health Professionals, Chapter 10 'Volatile Substances' (PDF 112 KB). Also see Resource Kit 'Volatile Substances'.

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