The effects of inhalant intoxication resemble those of alcohol inebriation-stimulation, characterized by a loss of inhibition, followed by depression. Individuals may display impaired gait, slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and a blank stare. Since these substances displace oxygen, the heart generally will accelerate, resulting in an increased pulse rate. Depending on the specific substance, blood pressure can be elevated or depressed. As with the CNS depressants, these drugs generally produce horizontal gaze nystagmus, but do not usually affect pupil size.
Users report distortion in perceptions of time and space.
Many users experience headache, nausea or vomiting, slurred speech, loss of motor coordination, and wheezing. An odor of paint or solvents on clothes, skin, and breath is sometimes a sign of inhalant abuse. Use of PCP as a human anesthetic was discontinued because patients often became agitated, delusional, and irrational while recovering from its effects. PCP is a white, crystalline powder that is readily soluble in water or alcohol. It has a distinctive bitter chemical taste and can be found on the illicit drug market in a variety of tablets, capsules, and colored powders.