Many people classify solvents-inhalants as drugs.
However, the solvents-inhalants most abused are toxic chemicals found in common household and industrial products. Solvents are the chemicals abused as inhalants. Solvents-inhalants act as depressants and slow down the body's functions. This occurs because solvents cause abnormal pumping of the heart that can lead to heart failure. The Facts Depressants slow down the central nervous system by relaxing muscles, calming nerves, and producing sleep.