Nitrous Oxide, also called "laughing gas," is a colorless gas often used for medical purposes. Dentists and doctors sometimes use it to reduce pain or help people relax during procedures like dental surgeries. It’s also used in the food industry, particularly in whipped cream canisters.

However, some people misuse nitrous oxide because of the short-term feelings it can create, like euphoria, relaxation, and even giggling or laughing—hence the nickname "laughing gas." When inhaled recreationally, it’s often taken from small metal canisters, sometimes referred to as "whippits" or "NOS."

Aside from its medical applications, ketamine has gained attention for its off-label use in treating depression, especially treatment-resistant depression. In recent years, there has been ongoing research exploring the use of ketamine as a potential therapy for various mental health conditions.

Ketamine can also be abused recreationally for its dissociative and hallucinogenic effects. When used inappropriately and without medical supervision, ketamine can lead to adverse effects, such as hallucinations, delirium, and disorientation. Non-medical use of ketamine can be extremely dangerous and is illegal.

Due to its potential for abuse and dependence, ketamine is classified as a Class B controlled drug which means it’s illegal to have for yourself, give away or sell.

Possession can get you up to 5 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.

Supplying someone else, even your friends, can get you up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.

Nitrous oxide is a colourless gas, so you can’t see it. But it’s usually found in:

• Small Metal Canisters: These are small, silver-coloured cylinders that look like tiny bottles.

• Balloons: When people misuse nitrous oxide, they often put the gas into balloons and inhale it.

• Whipped Cream Canisters: In the food industry, it’s used to make whipped cream fluffy.

You might see these canisters left on the ground in parks or car parks where people have been using them. If you see them, it’s a sign someone has been using nitrous oxide for recreational purposes.

Illicit ketamine sold on the streets may be mixed or "cut" with other substances, which can change its appearance and make it more dangerous. It is essential to remember that obtaining and using ketamine without a valid medical prescription is illegal and can be harmful to your health.

If you come across any unknown substances or suspect someone may be using ketamine illicitly, it's crucial to inform the proper authorities or seek help from a healthcare professional. Always prioritize safety and never use drugs that are not prescribed to you by a licensed medical practitioner.

How Does Nitrous Oxide Make You Feel?

When people inhale nitrous oxide, they might feel:

• Happy and Relaxed: It can make you feel calm or even giggly, which is why it’s called “laughing gas.”

• Light-headed or Dizzy: Some people feel like they’re floating or spinning.

• Dreamy or Confused: It might feel like the world around you is strange or not real.

These effects only last a few minutes, but they can make it hard to think clearly or stay safe. Sometimes, people feel sick or out of control.

The effects of nitrous oxide usually last for just a few minutes.

• Short High: The happy, relaxed, or dizzy feeling usually goes away quickly after you stop inhaling.

• After-effects: Some people might feel tired, confused, or have a headache for a little while after using it.

Even though the effects don’t last long, the risks, like oxygen deprivation or nerve damage, can be serious and long-lasting.

What Are the Risks of Nitrous Oxide?

Using nitrous oxide, especially for fun, can be dangerous. Here are some of the risks:

Short-term Risks

• Lack of Oxygen: Inhaling too much can stop oxygen from getting to your brain, which can cause fainting, unconsciousness, or even suffocation.

• Injuries: Feeling dizzy or losing balance could lead to accidents or falls.

• Freezing Injuries: If inhaled directly from a metal canister, the gas is so cold it can damage your throat, mouth, or lungs.

• Confusion: It can make you feel disoriented, which might lead to risky decisions.

Long-term Risks

• Nerve Damage: Regular use can lead to a vitamin B12 deficiency, causing tingling, numbness, or difficulty walking.

• Memory Problems: Heavy or frequent use can make it harder to remember things.

• Mental Health Issues: It can worsen feelings of anxiety or depression.

Legal Risks

• Nitrous oxide is a Class C drug in the UK.

  • Possession: You could face up to 2 years in prison.

  • Supplying It: Sharing it with friends could mean up to 14 years in prison.

Even though the high feels short and harmless, nitrous oxide can cause serious health problems and accidents. It’s not worth the risk.

Physical health risks: Ketamine can cause a range of physical effects, such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and impaired motor coordination. High doses or prolonged use can lead to more severe consequences for cardiovascular health.

Cognitive impairment:

Ketamine can cause confusion, impaired judgment, and difficulty with communication and memory.

Dissociation:

While some people may seek the dissociative effects of ketamine, prolonged or intense dissociation can lead to feelings of depersonalization, detachment, and an altered sense of reality.

Accidents and injuries:

Ketamine use can impair coordination and judgment, increasing the risk of accidents, falls, and other injuries.

Psychological effects:

Some individuals may experience anxiety, panic attacks, or intense hallucinations, especially at higher doses.

Dependence and addiction:

Regular use of ketamine can lead to tolerance and dependence, with users needing higher doses to achieve the same effects. Continued use can also result in addiction.

Bladder and urinary tract problems: Chronic ketamine use has been associated with a condition known as "ketamine bladder syndrome," which can cause urinary tract issues, pain, and potential long-term damage to the bladder.

Respiratory depression:

In high doses, ketamine can lead to slowed breathing, which can be dangerous, especially when combined with other drugs that depress the respiratory system.

Legal consequences:

Non-medical use of ketamine is illegal in many countries and can result in legal troubles if caught in possession or distribution.

It is important to remember that using ketamine without medical supervision and for recreational purposes can be risky and harmful. If you or someone you know is struggling with ketamine use or substance abuse, seeking professional help and support is essential.