If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to Nitrous Oxide, reach out for help. Our compassionate team of experts is here to help.
Nitrous oxide, more colloquially known as “laughing gas” or “nangs,” is a colorless, slightly sweet-smelling gas with a wide range of medical and recreational applications. English chemist Joseph Priestley discovered it in the late 18th century.
In 1772, Priestley first synthesized nitrous oxide and observed its intriguing properties. Fellow scientist Humphry Davy soon after conducted experiments with the gas, including inhaling it and noting its euphoric, analgesic (pain-relieving), and dissociative effects. These findings paved the way for nitrous oxide’s eventual adoption in the medical field.
By the mid-19th century, nitrous oxide had become a staple in dentistry, used to sedate patients and alleviate the discomfort of procedures. Its use expanded to other medical settings, including obstetrics, where it helped manage pain during childbirth. Today, the inhalant remains a necessary anesthetic and analgesic agent, administered in controlled, medical-grade concentrations.
Nitrous oxide is also used in culinary applications, particularly in making “real” whipped cream. Chefs and bakers have a canister in which they insert nitrous oxide cartridges, and the gas combined with the ingredients can create culinary delights.
However, the sale of canisters and cartridges is not well-regulated, and these are often recreationally ingested and known as “whippets.” In these cases, users seek to experience the euphoric and hallucinogenic effects of NO2. This “recreational use” of laughing gas, also known as “hippie crack,” can be hazardous and is associated with a range of severe health risks.
Inhaling nitrous oxide outside of a controlled medical setting can have severe consequences. The gas can displace oxygen in the lungs, leading to hypoxia (oxygen deprivation) and potentially causing brain damage or even death. Prolonged or heavy use can also deplete the body’s stores of vitamin B12, leading to nerve damage and other neurological complications.
Determining how long nitrous oxide stays in your body depends on your liver and metabolic function, body mass, age, and how long you were using the substance. However, on average, the elimination half life of nitrous oxide is approximately 5 minutes.
The immediate effects of nitrous oxide misuse can include
These short-term effects can be unpredictable and dangerous, especially if the user is engaged in activities that require physical coordination or awareness.
Chronic, heavy use of nitrous oxide can have devastating long-term consequences. These may include
The depletion of vitamin B12 can also lead to lasting neurological problems, such as memory loss and impaired motor function.
While nitrous oxide is not physically addictive in the same way as some other substances, it can still lead to psychological dependence. Users may find themselves compulsively seeking out the drug to experience its euphoric effects, putting their health and safety at risk.
When someone becomes dependent on nitrous oxide, their body and brain adapt to the presence of the gas. Consequently, abruptly discontinuing its use can trigger a range of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms including:
In severe cases of nitrous oxide abuse, individuals may experience even more distressing effects, such as mental disorientation, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, and fever. These withdrawal symptoms can be clinically significant, particularly among heavy users of the gas.
The timeline for nitrous oxide withdrawal can vary depending on several factors, including the duration and severity of the individual’s abuse. Generally, withdrawal symptoms can begin within the first 24 to 48 hours after the last use and can last for up to a week or more.
In the initial first two days, physical symptoms like tremors, sweating, vomiting, and even psychosis or hallucinations may surface. Over the next three to seven days, the focus shifts more toward psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia. While the physical symptoms tend to subside after the first week, some psychological effects, like mild drug cravings and cognitive issues, can persist for several weeks, especially in cases of heavy, long-term nitrous oxide abuse.
It’s important to note that the withdrawal process can be both physically and mentally taxing, putting individuals at risk of relapse. Seeking professional help is crucial to navigating this challenging period safely and effectively.
Detoxification, or detox, is the first step in the recovery process for individuals struggling with nitrous oxide addiction. During detox, medical professionals work to manage withdrawal symptoms and stabilize the individual’s physical and mental health.
While there are no medications specifically designed to treat nitrous oxide withdrawal, doctors may prescribe certain medications to alleviate symptoms like nausea, insomnia, and anxiety. The detox process can take place in either an inpatient or outpatient setting, depending on the individual’s needs and the severity of their addiction.
Inpatient detox programs provide 24-hour medical supervision and support, ensuring the individual’s safety and comfort throughout the withdrawal process. Outpatient detox, on the other hand, allows the individual to receive treatment while living at home, which may be more suitable for those with a robust support system.
After the detox phase, individuals typically transition into a comprehensive addiction treatment program, which may include
Support groups, such as 12-step programs, are also highly recommended to mitigate the risk of relapse. The duration and intensity of the treatment plan will depend on the individual’s needs and the severity of their nitrous oxide addiction.
While nitrous oxide has undoubtedly made essential contributions to the field of medicine, its recreational use can have devastating consequences. By understanding the risks and seeking appropriate treatment, individuals struggling with nitrous oxide addiction can take the first steps towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to Nitrous Oxide, reach out for help. Our compassionate team of experts is here to help.