Treatment of Inhalant Abuse With Risperidone

Letter to the Editor

Sir: Because inhalants are inexpensive, readily available, and easily concealed, they are frequently the first mood-altering substances used by children. Surveys reveal inhalant use as early as 6 years of age, increasing to a rate of 21.6% in 8th grade. Acute effects of inhalants include euphoria, spatial and visual distortions, and impulsivity. Chronic use leads to neurologic and psychiatric symptoms including incoordination, irritability, paranoia, aggression, and cognitive impairments.