Inhalants are volatile substances that produce chemical vapors that can be inhaled to induce a psychoactive, or mind-altering, effect. Common inhalants used to get high include rubber cement, paint thinner, nail polish remover, gasoline, correction fluids and bleach. The rate of first use among youths age 12-17 rose significantly from 1990 to 1998, from 11.6 to 28.1 per 1,000 potential new users. Effects of inhalants Inhalant use can cause a number of health problems, including suffocation and even death.
Products are widely available, inexpensive, easy to conceal and are legal.
Most users do not realize how dangerous inhalants can be. Many young people start because they don't think these substances can hurt them. Once hooked, they find it a tough habit to break. One in five youth has used inhalants. Young people from all socioeconomic groups and ethnic backgrounds have tried inhalants, yet 9 out of 10 parents refuse to believe their children have ever abused inhalants.