Case report reveals habitual polyethylene chewing for calming effects in an adolescent with inhalant use disorder, highlighting the need to investigate potential psychoactive properties.
Key Points
To report a novel presentation of habitual low-density polyethylene chewing for perceived psychoactive effects in an adolescent with chronic inhalant use disorder.
Clinical case evaluation of a 15-year-old female presenting with an 8-year history of multisubstance inhalant misuse alongside daily plastic bag chewing.
The individual chewed black low-density polyethylene bags daily to achieve feelings of calmness and satisfaction, escalating intake during periods of academic stress.
Concomitant misuse of other inhalants included petrol, paint thinner, nail polish remover, and correction fluid over an 8-year span.
The case represents the first documented instance of polyethylene misuse for mood-altering effects, though the underlying pharmacodynamic activity versus placebo response remains unverified.