Yes, drugs that are snorted do pass through the liver, but not in the same way as drugs that are swallowed. When a drug is snorted, it is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the nose and enters the bloodstream directly, bypassing the digestive system. This leads to a faster onset of effects because the drug reaches the brain more quickly. However, once the drug circulates through the body, it eventually passes through the liver, where it is metabolized and broken down before being eliminated from the body.
This process is different from oral ingestion, where the drug first goes through the liver (via the first-pass metabolism) before entering the bloodstream. Because snorting bypasses this initial liver metabolism, it can make certain drugs more potent and increase the risk of overdose. Over time, repeated drug use—regardless of the method of intake—can still damage the liver, especially with substances that are toxic or require extensive liver processing
Why Are People Snorting Drugs?
Why do people snort pills? The answer is simple: Snorting drugs delivers a fast-acting and intense high. Drugs that are snorted enter the bloodstream very quickly, because they bypass the digestive system and liver - allowing the drug to take effect far more quickly than if it were swallowed. This rapid onset of effects can be appealing to users seeking an immediate rush, especially with stimulants like cocaine or opioids like crushed prescription pills.
People choose to snort drugs for several reasons, including the perception of a stronger effect and the avoidance of needles. Compared to smoking or injecting, snorting is often seen as a less risky or more socially acceptable method, despite its own health dangers. However, frequent snorting can:
- Damage nasal tissues
- Cause chronic congestion
- Lead to infections or perforation of the nasal septum
While it may seem like a convenient way to use drugs, the risks involved in snorting drugs can have long-term consequences on both physical health and addiction potential.
If you or a loved one snort drugs to cope with daily life, contact us at Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on your road to recovery.
Dangers and Risks of Snorting Drugs
Snorting drugs allows drugs to reach the bloodstream quickly, increasing the risk of overdose, especially with potent substances like cocaine, methamphetamine, and opioids. Additionally, drugs can drip into the lungs, causing breathing problems, chronic coughing, and a higher chance of lung infections. Many people also experience an immediate burning sensation in their nose and throat.
Long-term use can lead to severe and sometimes permanent damage. The nasal passages can deteriorate, making it difficult to breathe and sometimes requiring surgery. Sinus infections become more common, and individuals may lose their sense of smell or taste. Chronic irritation from snorting can also cause ongoing throat pain and swallowing difficulties. Given these risks, snorting drugs is a highly dangerous habit with serious consequences for both short-term and long-term health.
Health Effects of Snorting Drugs
Beyond the nasal and respiratory systems, snorting drugs can severely impact the cardiovascular system by increasing heart rate and blood pressure, raising the risk of:
- Heart attacks
- Strokes
- Poor circulation
The brain and nervous system are also affected, potentially leading to:
- Headaches
- Memory loss
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Drug-induced psychosis
Additional Side Effects Of Snorting Drugs
Snorting drugs can also irritate the digestive system, causing nausea, acid reflux, and even ulcers. The immune system weakens over time when a person snorts drugs, making users more susceptible to infections and slower wound healing. Sleep disturbances, including insomnia, fatigue, and vivid nightmares during withdrawal, are also common.
Perhaps most concerning, frequent snorting can quickly lead to addiction, as the fast-acting effects encourage repeated use, increasing tolerance and dependence. This makes quitting difficult and can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms, including intense cravings, depression, and anxiety.
Science Behind Snorting Things
Snorting, or insufflation, is a method of drug administration in which a substance is inhaled through the nose and absorbed into the bloodstream via the nasal mucosa. The nasal cavity is lined with a thin mucous membrane that contains a dense network of blood vessels. When a substance is snorted, it dissolves in the mucus and diffuses across the membrane directly into the bloodstream. This allows for rapid absorption and a quicker onset of effects compared to oral ingestion.
One major advantage of snorting is that it bypasses first-pass metabolism, which occurs when a substance is processed by the liver before entering systemic circulation. By avoiding this metabolic step, a higher percentage of the drug reaches the bloodstream in its active form, increasing its bioavailability. The effects typically begin within minutes, making snorting a preferred route for those seeking a fast-acting response. However, repeated snorting can damage the nasal mucosa, leading to irritation, inflammation, and even the breakdown of the septum over time.
Behavioral Signs of Pill Snorting
Common behavioral signs of sniffing drugs include:
- Frequent Nose-Touching or Sniffling – Constantly rubbing the nose, sniffling, or clearing the throat without a cold or allergies.
- Withdrawal from Social Activities – Avoiding family, friends, or responsibilities to engage in drug use.
- Mood Swings – Rapid shifts between euphoria, irritability, aggression, or depression.
- Paranoia or Anxiety – Increased nervousness, restlessness, or suspicious behavior.
- Hyperactivity or Excessive Energy – Unusual bursts of energy, rapid speech, or inability to sit still, especially if inconsistent with the person’s normal behavior.
- Frequent Bathroom Visits – Going to the bathroom or secluded areas frequently, possibly to use drugs.
- Neglecting Responsibilities – Declining performance at work, school, or home.
- Financial Problems – Unexplained spending, borrowing money, or missing valuables.
- Changes in Sleep Patterns – Staying awake for long periods or experiencing irregular sleep.
- Secretive Behavior – Hiding personal belongings, being evasive about activities, or locking doors more often.
Physical Signs of Snorting Drugs
Below are some of the most common physical signs of snorting drugs:
- Frequent Nosebleeds – Irritation from drug particles can damage the nasal lining, leading to frequent bleeding.
- Runny or Congested Nose – Persistent nasal discharge or congestion without a cold or allergies.
- Inflamed or Red Nostrils – Visible redness or soreness around the nostrils.
- Powder Residue Around the Nose – White, off-white, or darker powder near the nostrils.
- Frequent Sniffling or Sneezing – Due to irritation inside the nasal passages.
- Sinus Issues – Increased sinus infections or pressure headaches.
- Dry Mouth and Throat – Dehydration caused by drug effects or nasal blockage.
- Hoarseness or Sore Throat – From postnasal drip carrying drug residue down the throat.
- Bad Breath – Due to lingering drug particles or infections.
- Dilated or Constricted Pupils – Depending on the type of drug used.
- Unexplained Weight Loss – Common with stimulant use due to decreased appetite.
- Jaw Clenching or Teeth Grinding – Often seen with stimulants like cocaine or methamphetamine.
- Skin Changes – Pale or flushed complexion, excessive sweating, or breakouts.
What Drugs are Snorted?
Several types of drugs are commonly snorted, primarily because they are in powder form or can be crushed to enhance their effects.
- Stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine are among the most frequently snorted substances, as they provide an intense rush of energy, alertness, and euphoria.
- Prescription stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin, typically used to treat ADHD, are also sometimes abused in this way for increased focus or productivity.
- Opioids, including heroin, oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet), and fentanyl, are another category of drugs often snorted to achieve faster and more potent pain-relieving and euphoric effects. However, snorting opioids significantly increases the risk of overdose, particularly with fentanyl, which is a very strong drug.
- Hallucinogens and dissociative drugs like ketamine and MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly in powder form) are sometimes snorted, leading to altered perceptions and dissociative experiences.
- Some prescription medications, such as benzos (Xanax, Valium, Ativan), are also crushed and snorted to amplify their sedative effects.
- Synthetic drugs like "bath salts" (synthetic cathinones) and tianeptine ("gas station heroin") have also been reported to be snorted, often leading to unpredictable and dangerous consequences.
While snorting drugs may produce a faster onset of effects, it also comes with significant health risks, including nasal damage, addiction, and increased chances of overdose.
Can Snorting Drugs Lead to an Overdose?
Yes, snorting drugs can lead to an overdose. When a drug is snorted, it enters the bloodstream quickly through the nasal tissues, leading to a faster and often more intense effect. This rapid absorption increases the risk of ingesting too much before the body has time to process it, potentially leading to overdose.
Certain drugs, particularly opioids like heroin, oxycodone, and fentanyl, pose a high overdose risk when snorted because they depress the central nervous system, slowing breathing and heart rate. Stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine can also cause overdose by triggering heart attacks, strokes, or seizures due to extreme increases in blood pressure and heart rate. Additionally, many street drugs are mixed with unknown substances, especially fentanyl, which is extremely potent and has caused a surge in accidental overdoses. Because snorting delivers drugs to the brain quickly, users may not realize how much they've consumed until it's too late, making overdose a serious and life-threatening risk.
Addiction Treatment for Snorting Drugs
Addiction treatment for drugs that are snorted, such as cocaine, heroin, or prescription stimulants, requires a comprehensive approach which includes medical, psychological, and behavioral interventions. The first step is often medical detox, where withdrawal symptoms are managed under medical supervision. For opioids, medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone may be used to ease cravings and prevent relapse, while stimulant addiction is typically treated with supportive care, including sleep aids or antidepressants as needed. Detox alone, however, is not a cure and should be followed by therapy and long-term support.
Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play a crucial role in addiction treatment by helping individuals recognize triggers, develop coping strategies, and change harmful thought patterns. Motivational interviewing (MI) can also be effective in enhancing a person's commitment to recovery. In many cases, inpatient or outpatient rehab programs can provide structured treatment plans which include counseling, group therapy, and relapse prevention strategies. Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or SMART Recovery offer additional community-based support networks, helping individuals maintain sobriety.
Snorting Drugs? Avenues Recovery Can Help!
If you or a loved one is snorting drugs to cope with daily life, please reach out to us at Avenues Recovery Center so we can guide you on your road to recovery. Our highly professional staff have helped over 40,000 individuals overcome their addictions, and they can help you too! Contact us today to join our vibrant recovery community and to begin your journey to the sober future of your dreams!