Which drugs are commonly associated with a chemical odor?

Inhalants are commonly associated with a chemical odor because they often include volatile substances that produce strong, distinctive smells when used. These substances, which can include cleaners, adhesives, and aerosols, emit fumes that are designed to be inhaled for their psychoactive effects. The chemical nature of these products means that they can have a sharp, pungent odor that is significant enough to be noticeable when someone is using them.

In contrast, while narcotic analgesics, anabolic steroids, and cannabis can produce distinct effects or can be recognized for other reasons related to their use, they are not typically characterized by a noticeable chemical odor. Narcotic analgesics are often in a pill or liquid form without a strong aroma, anabolic steroids are usually in a solid or liquid form with minimal scent, and cannabis has its own unique odor, which is more earthy or herbal rather than chemical.