Inhalants are any substance that gives off vapors capable of generating an intoxicating "high." They are in many common household products and manufactured chemicals. Adolescents are the primary users of inhalants. This may be because they are easily accessible, often being readily available at home or a nearby store. Evidence suggests that nearly 20% of American high school students have tried "sniffing," with the majority being middle-school students. While there are many chemicals capable of intoxication, inhalants, in general, create a quickly developing, intense, short-lived "high." They are a depressant to the central nervous system, with effects similar to those of alcohol intoxication. Inhalants adversely affect the user's physical and mental health. They damage vital organs such as the heart and kidneys. Inhalants also serve as a "gateway" drug" to other types of substance abuse.
This basic guide to understanding inhalant use and abuse contains "need to know" information about this dangerous drug, such as its physical and psychological effects on the user and where to get help and further information.
