Laughing gas: nothing to laugh about

Abstract

Trends in substance abuse are constantly evolving and therefore our awareness and knowledge as health professionals should too. Nitrous oxide (N2O), also known as “laughing gas”, “nangs”, “whippits” or “hippie crack” has been used in a recreational context for almost 250 years, with a few periods of exponential growth in its use during that time, the latest occurring in the last 10 years. There is, however, a significant difference when comparing recent years to the 1970s or the Victorian era. Nowadays, N2O is not only widely available, it is also cheap and easy to use. Adolescents who abuse N2O are seeking quick sensations such as euphoria, relaxation, or hallucinations, unaware of, or disregarding, the potential serious adverse effects and chronic consequences. In 2014, the Global Drug Survey confirmed that N2O had become increasingly popular as a recreational drug and Portugal, unfortunately, is no exception. In 2021, Portuguese law enforcement authorities seized nearly 400 units of canisters (N2O containers) and 2022 followed the same trend, which led to a proposal to the Portuguese Ministry of Health to regulate N2O sales and consumption. In September 2022, that proposal was approved and ever since, N2O has been classified as a prohibited psychoactive substance.

Keywords

• Drugs. Nitrous oxide. Adolescents. Vitamin B12. Neurotoxicity.