Smelling salt products promise an ‘energy boost,’ but have reportedly caused seizures, FDA warns

Some unapproved inhalers marketed to “enhance alertness and boost energy” mostly contain ammonia, a toxic gas that can cause severe symptoms if inhaled. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns (opens in new tab) Monday (May 1).

“Inhaling ammonia can quickly cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, and constriction of the airways,” the FDA’s warning reads. “The FDA has received reports of adverse events from consumers who have used the unapproved stimulants known as ‘nose slap’ and ‘soul slap’, including shortness of breath, seizures, migraines, vomiting, diarrhea and fainting. increase.