Inhalants FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Inhalants

Although many parents are appropriately concerned about illicit drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, and LSD, they often ignore the dangers posed to their children from common household products that contain volatile solvents or aerosols. Products such as glues, nail polish remover, lighter fluid, spray paints, deodorant and hair sprays, canned whipped cream, and cleaning fluids are widely available. Many young people inhale the vapors from these sources in search of quick intoxication without being aware of the serious health consequences that can result.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about inhalants compiled by the National Institute on Drug Abuse:

What are inhalants?

What are the patterns of inhalant abuse?

What is the scope of inhalant abuse?

How are inhalants used?

How do inhalants produce their effects?

What are the short- and long-term effects of inhalant use?

What are the medical consequences of inhalant abuse?

What are the special risks for nitrite abusers?