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.
The FDA issued a consumer safety warning. after sending the letter (opens in new tab) The warning letter names two stimulants sold on the company’s website, neither of which is FDA-approved. According to the letter, Nose Slap and Soul Slap are touted as energy-boosting alternatives to sugar and caffeine, and the company’s website states that both inhalers contain ammonia. .
Specifically, the product is described as being “extremely powerful.” smelly saltIn general, scented salts work by using ammonia to irritate the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, triggering the inhalation reflex. This reflex, in turn, can alter a person’s breathing, increase oxygen flow and gas exchange in the lungs, and potentially increase alertness.
Related: Don’t use ‘amniotic fluid’ eye drops, FDA warns
When used to prevent or treat syncope, olfactory salts Physician no longer uses regularly (opens in new tab)However, it is sometimes used by athletes to enhance performance, although there is little evidence to support this use. Also, Nose Slap and Soul Slap are not approved, so the FDA cannot guarantee product quality or safety.
Depending on the amount inhaled, ammonia burns tissue in the nose, throat and trachea. It causes swelling and fluid buildup in the lungs. And, in addition to the aforementioned symptoms, it causes “airway disruption causing respiratory distress or failure.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (opens in new tab) (CDC).
Those who survive breathing very high concentrations of ammonia can experience long-term lung damage, and if the chemical gets into their eyes, it can damage the cornea and sometimes lead to blindness. CDC memo (opens in new tab).
In a warning statement, FDA encouraged health professionals and consumers to report adverse events or quality issues with Nose Slap or Soul Slap to agency officials. MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting Program (opens in new tab).
“These products have not been proven to be safe or effective for their intended uses,” the FDA said. Legal action may be taken without further notice, including but not limited to.”
