Inhalants are substances whose vapors can be inhaled to produce a mind-altering effect.
They are rarely, if ever, taken by any route other than inhalation. Inhalants are often among the first drugs that young children use. About 6 percent of children in the United States have tried inhalants by the time they reach fourth grade. The quick high from inhalants lasts only a few minutes, so abusers often inhale repeatedly over several hours-a practice that can cause unconsciousness and even death. Early recognition of inhalant abuse is important for parents and physicians.