Will modifying inhalants reduce volatile substance misuse? A review

Abstract

Recent growing concern in Australia and elsewhere about harm associated with volatile substance misuse (VSM) in both urban and remote settings has prompted an openness to new policies, laws and programs for prevention and treatment. One measure under consideration is product modification of volatile substances (VSPM). This article reviews international literature documenting instances of three kinds of product modification: (1) replacement of particularly harmful or psychoactive components; (2) addition of deterrent chemicals; and (3) package modification. Although VSPM has received considerable attention, few initiatives have been implemented and, of these, even fewer evaluated. Where VSPM has occurred, success in reducing misuse of specific products appears to have occurred in relation to type (1) modifications, many of which have been driven by environmental rather than health concerns. The ready availability of a wide range of VSM products in most urban settings means that even where interventions reduce misuse of targeted substances, other substances are likely to be substituted. We conclude that any VSPM should target substances most strongly associated with harm and be supported by an appropriate range of other strategies.