I know that inhalants aren't either a stimulant or a depressant. So what are they?

Thank you for using the Jiskha Homework Help Forum. Here is a site from the government explaining inhalants:

http://www.nida.nih.gov/Infofacts/Inhalants.html

thanks, but I couldn't find the answers I needed there.

An inhalant is just a device to deliver drugs. Inside could be a stimulant, a depressant, a hormone, an antibiotic, or in the case of CP, a genetic protein. In the case of asthma, steroids are delivered by inhalants.

I apologize for the confusion. When referring to inhalants in the context of substances that can be abused, they are a category of chemicals that produce psychoactive effects when inhaled. These substances are typically in the form of volatile solvents, aerosols, or gases that are inhaled through the nose or mouth.

Inhalants are not classified as a specific type of drug like stimulants or depressants. Instead, they encompass a wide range of different substances with various chemical properties and effects on the body. Some common examples include gasoline, glue, paint thinner, aerosol sprays, and nitrous oxide.

The effects of inhalants can vary depending on the specific substance and dosage. They generally produce a rapid and short-lived high, resulting in altered perception, dizziness, drowsiness, disinhibition, and sometimes hallucinations. However, inhalant abuse can also lead to serious health consequences, including damage to the brain, liver, kidneys, and other organs.

If you have any further questions or need more specific information, I recommend consulting reliable sources such as the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) or speaking with a healthcare professional.