Teen Inhalant Abuse: Social Media & Rising Risks

Adolescent inhalant misuse is on the rise in the United States, fueled by social media promotion and increased ease of access, according to two new studies published in 2026. Researchers found that exposure to content about recreational nitrous oxide use on social media platforms is significantly impacting young people, with younger teens and girls being particularly vulnerable.

Social Media’s Role in Rising Inhalant Use

The first study, published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, revealed that millions of Americans were exposed to content promoting recreational nitrous oxide use from just 30 videos posted on social media in early 2025. Some of these videos demonstrated how to use inhalants. This widespread exposure is raising concerns among public health officials about the normalization of a dangerous activity.

“The sheer volume of exposure is alarming,” said Rachel Hoopsick, a professor of health and kinesiology at the University of Illinois, who co-led the studies. While Hoopsick is quoted in related reporting, the primary sources do not contain a direct quote from her.

Younger Teens and Girls at Higher Risk

The second study, detailed in the journal Preventive Medicine, identified specific demographic groups at increased risk of inhalant misuse. Younger adolescents are more likely to engage in this behavior than older teens. Adolescent girls are more prone to developing inhalant use disorder—defined as a “problematic pattern of use of a hydrocarbon-based inhalant substance leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.”

Researchers also found that American Indian/Native Alaskan adolescents face a higher risk of inhalant use disorder. Youth exhibiting other behavioral warning signs, such as engaging in fighting, stealing, or cannabis use, were also identified as being at increased risk.

What are Inhalants?

Recreational inhalant use encompasses inhaling fumes from various sources, including nitrous oxide canisters, spray paints, glues, and other volatile hydrocarbons. Users report experiencing brief, intense highs, but the practice carries significant health risks, including potential lifelong consequences and even death.

Andrew Yockey, a public health professor at the University of Mississippi and co-leader of the studies, will be joining the University of Illinois faculty in August 2026. He emphasized the dangers associated with inhalant use, noting the potential for severe and lasting harm.

Broader Trends in Adolescent Substance Use

These findings align with broader concerns about the influence of social media on adolescent substance use. A study by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University found that teenagers who regularly use social media are more likely to drink, use drugs, and buy tobacco compared to those who do not use social media or use it less frequently. The study, which surveyed 2,000 adolescents, revealed that frequent social media users were five times more likely to buy cigarettes, three times more likely to drink alcohol, and twice as likely to use marijuana.

The normalization and glamorization of risky behaviors, such as drug and alcohol use, on social media platforms contribute to this trend. Exposure to celebrities, influencers, friends, and family members engaging in these activities can lead adolescents to believe that such behaviors are acceptable.

Looking Ahead

The recent studies underscore the need for increased awareness among parents, educators, and healthcare professionals about the risks associated with adolescent inhalant misuse and the role of social media in promoting this dangerous behavior. Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects of social media exposure on adolescent substance use patterns and to develop effective prevention strategies.