Household solvents are as bad as heroin and ecstacy.

Among the lethal and volatile substances abused were hairspray, antiperspirant, lighter fluid and industrial solvent. The report said the majority of volatile-substance users are teenage boys and girls who are still at school and only a small number seek treatment.

"Nonetheless, there are a number of fatalities each year as a result of inhaling these everyday household products," it warned.

Nine of those who died were under the age of 15 years and one in two occurred in a private house, the findings from the Health Research Board revealed.

The report called for volatile substances to be included in drug education. Parents must be aware of the dangers of volatile-substance abuse and should class them in the same category as heroin, cocaine or ecstasy.

Manufacturers should also be responsible and ensure they do all they can to deter substance abuse.

A variety of products in the home can be used but they are not generally thought of as drugs because they were never intended to produce intoxicating effects.

The board's report references one European study of 1,254 teenagers, which found that 4.2pc had used glue or solvents at least once or twice in their lives. Girls were marginally more likely to have used them and half said they had taken them three or more times in their lives.

The average age of first use was 10 years old and most used them outdoors with their peers and during the summer holidays. There were, however, some reports of use during school breaks.

Another study referenced in the report asked why the children continued to use solvents. They cited relief of boredom, to experience a high and to help with stress as well as keep up with their peers.

They described a variety of effects including fainting, vomiting, inflamed nostrils or headache. Some reported doing things they would not normally do such as having sex, being involved in vandalism or acting on a dare.

Significantly, they all knew someone who had died of solvent use and they suggested shopkeepers should not sell these substances to children.

Users normally feel an initial euphoria and lowering of inhibitions followed by drunk-like feelings. The health risks of abusing solvents include severe headaches and blackouts. The long-term effects of solvent abuse can include brain damage or failure of the kidney and liver.

Source: Eilish O'Regan, The Irish Examiner, 08/02/2010