“Inhalants” is a broad term for volatile chemicals whose vapors may be deliberately inhaled for intoxicating effects. The substances vary, but none should be inhaled for this purpose.
Health effects and risks
Inhalant exposure can quickly impair coordination and judgment, affect the heart and brain, cause unconsciousness, or lead to sudden death—even after a single episode. If someone collapses, has trouble breathing, or is confused after an exposure, call 911 and follow emergency responders’ directions.
Testing and next steps
Drug screens vary by specimen and by the substances listed on a test’s panel. Check the instructions and panel before selecting a test; do not assume every product detects this substance. A home screen is preliminary. For more on specimen types, read Drug Testing Methods; for a preliminary positive result, read Unexpected or Preliminary Positive Results. The Substance Information hub lists the current staging test options.
Sources and support
See the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s Commonly Abused Drugs chart for a general overview. For confidential U.S. treatment referrals, contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Call 911 for a medical emergency.