Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 20, 2025

A Novel Inhalation Mask System to Deliver High Concentrations of Nitric Oxide Gas in Spontaneously Breathing Subjects
Published on: May 4, 2021
Increasing recreational nitrous oxide use: Should we worry? A narrative review
Jan Gc van Amsterdam1, Ton Nabben2, Wim van den Brink1
1Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Recreational nitrous oxide (N₂O) use is increasing, leading to more young users experiencing serious neurological damage. Legislative action and education are needed to address this growing public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
Background:
- Recreational nitrous oxide (N₂O) use has risen globally since 2000.
- Large N₂O canisters facilitate excessive use, particularly among young individuals.
- Neurological damage, including irreversible neuropathy and paralysis, results from N₂O-induced vitamin B₁₂ deficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review recent trends in N₂O use and misuse.
- Detail adverse health effects linked to excessive N₂O consumption.
- Identify risk factors associated with N₂O misuse.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of current literature on N₂O use.
- Analysis of health effects and risk factors.
- Examination of emergency department data trends.
Main Results:
- A concerning increase in young N₂O users with neurological damage is observed.
- N₂O misuse is linked to severe and potentially irreversible neurological conditions.
- Emergency departments report a rise in N₂O-induced neurological injuries.
Conclusions:
- The escalating trend of excessive N₂O use poses a significant public health risk.
- Legislative measures to restrict N₂O availability are recommended.
- Enhanced education for the public and medical professionals regarding N₂O risks is crucial.
More Related Videos
08:58Procedures of Laboratory Fumigation for Pest Control with Nitric Oxide Gas
Published on: November 24, 2017
14:52Recording Brain Electromagnetic Activity During the Administration of the Gaseous Anesthetic Agents Xenon and Nitrous Oxide in Healthy Volunteers
Published on: January 13, 2018
Related Concept Videos
Inhalational Anesthetics: Overview
2° Amines to N-Nitrosamines: Reaction with NaNO2
Nitric Oxide Signaling Pathway
Drug Delivery: Enteral Route
Stimulants
Cocaine can be administered via snorting, injection, or smoking. It primarily functions by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, resulting in a euphoric high characterized by an intense sensation of happiness and...
Drugs Acting on Autonomic Ganglia: Stimulants
Ganglionic stimulants activate NM nicotinic receptors in autonomic ganglia, falling into two categories: nicotine mimetics [e.g., lobeline, dimethylpiperazine, tetramethylammonium] and muscarinic receptor agonists [e.g., muscarine, methacholine]. The first category's action is rapid and blocked by nicotinic receptor antagonists, while the second category's action is delayed and blocked by atropine-like agents. Nicotine, an alkaloid, affects the heart rate by stimulating...