If sufficient amounts are inhaled, nearly all solvents and gases produce anesthesia, a loss of sensation and even unconsciousness. One reason for inhalants' popularity is that their use is often easy to conceal. Parents often remain ignorant of inhalant use or do not educate their children until it is too late. 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. Treatment facilities for inhalant users are rare and difficult to find.
Users suffer a high rate of relapse, and require thirty to forty days or more of detoxification.
Users suffer withdrawal symptoms that can include hallucinations, nausea, excessive sweating, hand tremors, muscle cramps, headaches, chills and delirium tremens. Follow-up treatment is very important. NIPC is funded in part by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and is led by Synergies, a non-profit corporation founded by Harvey J. Weiss. The NIPC serves as an inhalant information clearinghouse, develops informational materials, and provides educational training and technical assistance. The Coalition also provides information on treatment centers.