Passive inhalation

The performance of a dry powder inhaler involves evaluation of component compatibility and influence on device performance. The performance of commercial passive inhaler devices is influenced by the pressure drop generated by a patient during an... 

Figure 5 shows examples of two dry powder inhalers, the Turbuhaler and the Diskus, currently marketed in the United States for the delivery of the steroids, budesonide and fluticosone, respectively. Table 6 shows the major elements of a number of passive dry powder inhalers. In addition to the commercially available passive inhalation products, a number of active dispersion systems are under development the key characteristics of selected devices are shown in Table 7. 

Even children are not immune from poisoning by PCP. Six cases were observed at the UCLA Medical Center, all 5 years old or younger. Presumably, most were poisoned by accidental ingestion of the drug, which was available in the house one child, only 11 days old, was presumably poisoned by passive inhalation of the smoke produced by the adults around him. The most common clinical manifestations in these youngsters was bizarre behavior, lethargy, ataxia, and nystagmus (48). 

Not only the sensitivity of the human olfactory system to androstenol (5a-androst-16-en-3a-ol) and androstenone (5a-androst-16-en-3-one),but also the difference in the sensitivity with which individuals can detect these compounds and the fact that they are implicated in the semiochemical communication of the pig, Sus scrofa [166,167], have led to them being considered human pheromones. Final confirmation that they are human pheromones is still outstanding. However, it was recently found that passive inhalation of another related steroid, androsta-4,16-dien-3-one, can influence the physiological state of humans by increasing a positive mood in test persons [168]. It has yet to be determined whether humans exude concentrations of this chemical information that are adequate for communication within social contexts. 

Perez-Reyes, M. et al., Passive inhalation of marihuana smoke and urinary excretion of cannabinoids, Clin. Pharmacol. Then34(1), 36-41, 1983. 

There has been much recent information on the dangers of passive tobacco smoke. Concern could also be expressed over potential problems of passive marijuana smoke, although intoxication is rarely reported from passive inhalation of marijuana. However, there are numerous reports of cannabis metabolites detected in the urine of the passive inhaler. THC metabolites may be present in the urine up to 2 months after heavy chronic use. 

The health of nonusers would be affected, too. Doctors are already concerned about the effect of secondhand tobacco smoke on children, but they are even more concerned about the effect of crack and other drugs. The passive inhalation of crack smoke can cause seizures and other neurological symptoms in infants and toddlers. 

In young children, accidental ingestion leads to the rapid onset of drowsiness, hypotonia, dilated pupils, and coma. Fortunately, gradual recovery occurs spontaneously, barring accidents. Passive inhalation of marijuana in infants can have serious consequences. 

Passive inhalation of free-base cocaine in small children can lead to serious consequences. 

Cone, E. J., Johnson, R. E., Darwin, W. D., Yosefnejad, D., Mell, L. D., Paul, B. D., and Mitchell, J., Passive inhalation of marijuana smoke urinalysis and room air levels of delta-8-tetrahydrocannab-inol, /. Anal. Toxicol, 11, 89,1987. 

BatUe MA, Wilcox WD. Pulmonary edema in an infant following passive inhalation of free-base ( crack ) cocaine. Qin Pediatr (Phila) 1993 32(2) 105-6. 

The occurrence of various cancers and decreased cardiovascular function are increased with tobacco use. These effects may also occur via passive inhalation of cigarette or cigar smoke. 

Cone EJ, Johnson RE, Darwin WD, Yousefnejad D, Mell LD, Paul BD, et al. Passive inhalation of marijuana smoke Urinalysis and room air level of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinoI. J Anal Toxicol 1987 11 89-96. 

Actual exposure for most of the United States population occurs from active or passive inhalation of the compounds in tobacco smoke, wood smoke, and contaminated air. and from eating the compounds in foods. Skin contact with contaminated water, soot. tar. and soil may also occur. Estimates for total exposure in the United States population have been listed as 3 mg/day. 

McMurray R, Hicks L, Thompson D. The effects of passive inhalation of cigarette... 

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