The inhalants group includes an entire garbage-binful of common chemicals that are sniffed for their intoxicating effects. Since they're so easy to get, they're often used by young people, particularly younger teens and pre-teens. Unfortunately, inhalants are also the most potentially dangerous substances kids can get into. Glue, paint, butane, and gasoline are among the most commonly used solvents. Sniffers typically act as if they're drunk, right down to the slurred speech and staggering gait, with effects lasting less than an hour.
Heavy use can cause hallucinations and impair memory, concentration, and coordination.
Long-term use can damage the brain and other body organs. Other risks derive from how fast solvents are absorbed when they're inhaled. Effects hit immediately, but so can overdose, without a gradual onset of warning signs. Sudden shock or exertion after sniffing can also trigger heart failure. Aerosol Sprays .