Alcohol Inhaling: Scary New Trend for Getting 'High'

Health officials are sounding the alarm about a new trend for getting "high" that can have deadly consequences.

Inhaling alcohol involves breathing in the fumes of an alcoholic drink without consuming it. 

Anti-drug councils are warning that the practice seems to have particular appeal for young people who do not want the calories of an alcoholic drink.

On Tuesday, the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office sent out a message about the dangers of alcohol inhaling.

Users pour an alcoholic drink over dry ice in a cup and then inhale the fumes deeply through the nose and mouth. The practice is not illegal for adults who can legally drink. 

So why the concern? The consequences can be serious. The vapors travel directly to the brain for an immediate and powerful effect. Doctors warn that there is a greater chance of alcohol poisoning when inhaling alcohol fumes.

Alcohol nebulizers (known as AWOLs, or alcohol without the liquor) already have been banned in many states, including Florida.

The Florida Coalition Alliance sent out a letter to members Tuesday to warn them about the practice of inhaling alcohol fumes.