What type of drug is likely taken by a 15-year-old athlete who exhibits slurred speech, loss of coordination, and slowed breathing?

The correct answer is that this scenario is indicative of inhalant use. Inhalants are substances that produce chemical vapors, which can be inhaled to create a psychoactive effect. Commonly used inhalants include household products like glues, paints, and aerosols.

When inhaled, these substances can lead to a range of symptoms, particularly affecting the central nervous system. Slurred speech, loss of coordination, and slowed breathing are direct effects of inhaling such substances, as they depress the central nervous system and impair motor function. This can be particularly dangerous for young athletes, as their bodies are still developing and any use of inhalants can severely impact their health and performance.

While alcohol can also cause similar symptoms, inhalants often lead to more acute effects and a distinct pattern of impairment that aligns with the symptoms described. Other options, such as amphetamines and hallucinogens, typically result in different behavioral signs and effects that do not match the presented symptoms as closely.