NCJ Number
210913
Journal
Substance Use & Misuse Volume: 40 Issue: 8 Dated: 2005 Pages: 1035-1050
Date Published
2005
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This paper presents findings from a study on the use of embalming fluid, as a recreational drug among Hartford, CT youth between the ages of 16 and 24.
Abstract
In the United States, as well as other countries, there has been a significant level of concern with the emergence and diffusion of a set of drugs popular among youth who participate in a subculture of late-night club dancing and “rave” partying. It is strongly suggested that embalming fluid mixtures be added to this list of drugs causing public health concerns. This paper presents findings from a study suggesting that the use of embalming fluid as a mind-altering drug has been underreported. Data for the paper came from a 4-year National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) study of transitions to hard drug use among urban youth in Hartford, CT. The study consisted of 400 youth between the ages of 16 and 24. The intent of the study was to demonstrate the independent effects of ecological/developmental factors and social influence through social networks on initiation of new drug trends and transition to the use of cocaine and heroin in any form. Almost 90 percent of the youth reported “ever-using” embalming fluid, always mixed with another substance, usually marijuana or mint leaves. The paper reports findings on frequency and distribution of use, experience, and consequences of use, access to the drug, and characteristics of embalming fluid users. Evidence shows a need to recognize embalming fluid as a drug of concern among youth. References