Smelling salts, also known as ammonia inhalants, are chemical compounds formulated to produce a strong, pungent vapor that stimulates alertness. They are typically used to revive a person who has fainted or to temporarily increase sensory awareness. The immediate physical effect makes them a consistently sought-after stimulant for various applications.
Current Availability and Legal Status
Smelling salts are widely available to the general public, primarily classified as over-the-counter aids or novelty products. They are not controlled substances in major markets like the United States, which contributes to the ease of their purchase. The primary use approved by regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is for the prevention or treatment of fainting.
However, a distinction exists between their traditional use and their modern application as performance enhancers. The FDA has recently issued warnings against certain brands that market smelling salts explicitly for energy boosting, classifying these claims as unapproved drug uses. While the product itself remains legal to buy and possess, manufacturers have been cautioned against making unsubstantiated claims.
Common Retailers and Purchasing Options
Consumers looking to acquire smelling salts have several practical options, with the channel often depending on the intended use. The most convenient source for a wide variety of brands and formulations is typically online marketplaces, which offer bulk options and specialized athletic formulas. This online retail environment has become the primary distribution point for newer products.
For those seeking traditional first-aid versions, physical locations such as large retail pharmacies or stores with extensive first-aid sections may carry them, often labeled as ammonia inhalants. Specialized sports nutrition stores also frequently stock these products, positioning them alongside pre-workout supplements. However, general in-store availability can be inconsistent, making online purchasing the most reliable method.
Identifying Different Forms and Ingredients
Smelling salts are sold in a few distinct forms, which impacts their shelf life and method of activation. The most common traditional product is the single-use crushable ampoule or capsule, which contains the active liquid sealed in a breakable material. Modern options often include powdered formulas or liquid solutions packaged in small, resealable bottles that must be mixed with water to activate the ammonia release.
The active compound in these products is typically either ammonium carbonate, a white crystalline solid, or an aqueous solution of ammonia sometimes called aromatic spirits of ammonia. The stimulating effect comes from the rapid release of ammonia gas (NH3). This gas is produced when the ammonium carbonate decomposes upon exposure to air or moisture, or when the liquid solution is uncapped. Many formulations include inert ingredients and essential oils to mask the harshness of the ammonia odor.
Application Context and Associated Safety Concerns
The modern use of smelling salts is divided between their historical medical application and their more recent adoption in athletics. Historically, they were administered to individuals who had fainted, a condition caused by a temporary drop in blood flow to the brain. The strong ammonia fumes trigger an involuntary inhalation reflex, which increases the rate of breathing and heart rate, thereby forcing a rush of oxygen to the brain and restoring consciousness.
In contemporary sports, particularly powerlifting and hockey, athletes use the inhalants as a psychological stimulant to increase alertness and focus before a performance. The acute irritation from the ammonia gas activates the sympathetic nervous system, causing a temporary surge in the body’s “fight-or-flight” response. Users should be aware that the primary safety concerns revolve around misuse and the potential for masking injuries, especially concussions, by temporarily heightening awareness after a blow to the head.
To minimize the risk of irritation to the nasal passages and eyes, the product should be held a recommended distance of 10 to 15 centimeters (about 4 to 6 inches) from the nose. Overuse can lead to chemical burns on the sensitive mucous membranes of the nose. For individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma, the irritant nature of the fumes can exacerbate breathing difficulties. The involuntary reflex that occurs upon inhalation can also cause a sudden jerking of the head, which poses a serious risk if a user has a suspected neck or spinal injury.