So, chronic inhalant abusers may permanently lose the ability to walk, talk and think. Inhalants also slow down the body's reactions and distort the thinking process. The effects last only a few moments and when they wear off, the user may be irritable and depressed. Users of inhalants say they make them feel less inhibited. The effects are similar to alcohol and other sedatives.
High dosages can produce laughing, feelings of floating, illusions, time and space distortions.
These effects can last from five minutes to an hour, depending on the substance used and the amount. Symptoms of use include dilated pupils, blisters or rash around the nose or mouth, chronic cough, nausea and headaches, disorientation, chemical odor on breath. After only six months of use, the brain, lungs, nerves, liver, kidneys and bones may be permanently damaged. There are laws to regulate inhalants. Depending on state and local laws, and the type of inhalant used, a user may risk a fine and even a prison term.