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NITROUS OXIDE


What is it?

  • A colourless and, mainly, odourless gas.
  • Also known as laughing gas, noz or noxy.
  • Comes in small silver pressurised containers (bulbs).
  • Usually transferred from a canister into a balloon for inhaling.
  • It’s a class C drug. Supply or possession with the intention of using to get high is illegal.

How does it make you feel?

  • Users feel light-headed, dizzy, giggly and euphoric.
  • Can also cause confusion, headaches and nausea.

What are the risks?

  • Using pressurised gas directly from a cannister is dangerous.
  • Inhaling in an enclosed space or putting your head in a bag of gas can lead to unconsciousness.
  • Using in hazardous locations, like high buildings, close to water etc, is risky.
  • Prolonged and heavy use can result in vitamin B deficiency and nerve damage.
  • Symptoms of nerve damage can include numbness or pins and needles in the arms and/or legs.
  • Excessive use can cause breathing difficulties and heart problems.

If you're an organisation that engages with people who use drugs and alcohol, you can buy designed and printed versions of this information in the Substance shop.

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