Did you know that nitrous oxide, also known as nangs, is a drug used by dentists and in childbirth for pain relief? It's also sold as cream chargers for catering.
While it can be used safely in healthcare, the risks increase outside of these settings, especially if you're using large tanks, using a lot, or inhaling from products not meant to be inhaled.
When nitrous oxide is inhaled, it quickly enters your lungs and moves into your bloodstream.
It then travels to your brain where it affects areas linked to pain, mood, and memory. This is why the effects come on quickly and wear off quickly too.
When you use nitrous oxide, you might feel relaxed, happy, or giggly. You might also feel dizzy, uncoordinated, or experience visual or sound distortions.
The effects are usually short lasting between thirty seconds and a few minutes.
Using large amounts or using regularly can lead to more serious effects like feeling tired, breathless, confused or depressed, experiencing memory problems or weakness in your arms or legs.
Nitrous oxide stops your body from absorbing vitamin B12, which can lead to serious permanent nerve damage, paralysis, or psychosis.
Your body can't use B12 while nitrous oxide is in your system, so taking B12 supplements before or during won't fix the problem on its own.
If you choose to use nitrous oxide, there are ways to reduce harm. Avoid using nitrous oxide if you have an existing B12 deficiency.
Using small canisters instead of large tanks can help you keep track of how much you're using. Take days off between use and try to limit the number of canisters.
Release the gas into a balloon, as inhaling directly from the canisters can cause serious lung injury. Avoid direct skin contact with canisters to avoid freeze burns.
Sit down while using and avoid doing tasks that need concentration, as nitrous oxide can make you feel uncoordinated and out of it.
Take extra care of using nitrous oxide with alcohol or other substances, as this can intensify unpleasant effects and can make you more likely to pass out.
Stop use and get medical help immediately if you feel numb or weak in your arms and legs or have trouble breathing.
So remember, using large amounts of nitrous oxide or using regularly can cause serious long term harm.
Taking breaks and limiting how much you can use can help reduce risk and always look out for your mates.
