Are There Any Negative Side Effects to Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a substance that can provide a temporary feeling of euphoria and relaxation. However, like any other substance, it has its potential risks and side effects. This article aims to explore these aspects and understand the potential dangers associated with its recreational use.

Effects of Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide can induce feelings of happiness, relaxation, and disconnection from reality for about 20 seconds. Users may also experience dizziness and impaired judgment. At higher concentrations, some users report sensations of floating and detachment from their bodies, leading to its classification as a dissociative anesthetic in medical circles.

Is Nitrous Oxide Harmful?

While nitrous oxide is generally considered safe when used in small and infrequent doses, it should be approached with caution. Recreational use can impair coordination and judgment, making it unsuitable for dangerous situations. An individual without the substance should be around to supervise the user.

Risk of Overdose and Long-term Effects

It is extremely rare to overdose on nitrous oxide through recreational use, but it can impact coordination and judgment. While rare, fatal cases have been reported in the UK and US, with none reported in Australia.

Long-term Consequences

Regular heavy use of nitrous oxide can lead to a deficiency of Vitamin B12 (cobalamin), which is crucial for normal brain function. Lack of B12 can result in irreversible neurological damage.

Surprisingly Common Among Youth

Given its easy availability in the form of whipped cream cans, nitrous oxide has become increasingly popular among young individuals. According to recent media reports, the use of nitrous oxide (often referred to as nangs) ranks as the seventh most common drug globally, excluding caffeine, liquor, and tobacco.

Should We Boycott Nitrous Oxide?

The concern over youth behavior and the normalization of drug use is not new. Media hype can significantly influence perceptions and interest in drug use, often exacerbating fear and creating a false narrative of widespread use. While media reports can highlight the potential risks, they can also inadvertently promote the use of these substances by making them seem more prevalent than they actually are.

The media-driven hysteria about drug use can create a distorted perception among young people. When they see media coverage, young individuals might believe that more people are using these substances than is actually the case, which can lead to further experimentation and normalization.

It is crucial to maintain factual and balanced reporting to avoid perpetuating the problem. Educating young people about the risks and providing them with accurate information is key to preventing misuse and ensuring their health and safety.