Smelling salt products promise an 'energy boost,' but have reportedly caused seizures, FDA warns

photo shows a large sign outside of a multistory brick and cement building that reads: FDA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Food and Drug Administration

Several unapproved inhalants being marketed to "promote alertness and boost energy" contain mostly ammonia, a toxic gas that can sometimes cause severe symptoms when inhaled, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned Monday (May 1).

"Inhaling ammonia can quickly lead to eye, nose, and throat irritation; coughing; and airway constriction," the FDA warning reads. "FDA has received reports of adverse events such as shortness of breath, seizures, migraines, vomiting, diarrhea, and fainting from consumers" who used the unapproved stimulants, which are called "Nose Slap" and "Soul Slap."