Pronunciation: [ɪnhˈalənt] (IPA) 
The word "inhalant" is spelled with a silent "h" - /ɪnˈheɪlənt/. The "i" in the beginning is pronounced as "ih" and the "a" is pronounced as "ey". The "h" after "in" is not pronounced in English. "Inhalant" refers to a substance that is breathed in, such as drugs or gases. It is important to use correct spelling when communicating about inhalants, as miscommunication could have serious consequences.
An inhalant refers to a substance that is typically volatile or gaseous in nature and is inhaled or breathed in by an individual, usually for recreational purposes. Inhalants encompass a wide range of products or substances that produce psychoactive effects when vapors are inhaled into the respiratory system. These substances can include but are not limited to household items such as glue, paint thinners, gasoline, aerosol sprays, cleaning fluids, and even certain medical anesthetics.
The act of inhaling these substances can lead to a rapid absorption into the bloodstream, ultimately altering one's perception, mood, or consciousness. The effects of inhalants are generally short-lived, ranging from a few minutes to several hours. Inhalant use can induce an intense high, characterized by dizziness, euphoria, disorientation, hallucinations, and a loss of inhibition. However, it is important to note that inhalant abuse can have severe health consequences such as asphyxiation, cardiac arrhythmias, liver and kidney damage, brain damage, and even death.
Due to the potential for abuse and harmful side effects, the recreational use of inhalants is widely discouraged and often illegal. In many countries, it is classified as a form of substance abuse, and concerted efforts are made to raise awareness about its dangers, especially among young individuals. Treatment for inhalant abuse often involves medical supervision, counseling, and rehabilitation programs focused on substance abuse cessation.
That which is inhaled; a remedy given by inhalation.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "inhalant" is derived from the verb "inhale", which comes from the Latin word "inhālāre". "In" means "into" or "toward", and "hālāre" means "to breathe". Therefore, "inhale" refers to the act of breathing in or drawing air or substances into the lungs. From this verb, "inhalant" is formed by adding the suffix "-ant", which makes it a noun describing a substance or thing that is inhaled.
