EXHIBIT 23.1

               CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Ernst & Young
LLP, Independent Auditors" in the Registration Statement on Form S-3 and
related Prospectus of Inhale Therapeutic Systems, Inc. For the registration
of 180,099 shares of its common stock and to the incorporation by reference
therein of our report dated January 24, 2000, with respect to the financial
statements of Inhale Therapeutic Systems, Inc. Included in its Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1999, filed with the Securities
and exchange Commission.

                                                        /S/Ernst & Young LLP

                                                        Palo Alto, California
                                                        March 9, 2000