Recreational use of nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide (recreational use)

Food grade N2O charger (bottom right), cracker (top right) and balloon
Clinical data
Other names	laughing gas, nos, nangs, hippy crack, whippets, whippits, cannies, dusters, galaxy gas
Routes of administration	Inhalation
Legal status
Legal status	AU: OTC (Schedule 6) CA: OTC (C.01.036.1) NZ: OTC (R18) UK: C (since 2023) US: OTC (regulated by FDA)
Pharmacokinetic data
Metabolism	Not metabolized
Metabolites	None
Onset of action	15–30s
Duration of action	30s to minutes
Excretion	Exhaled
Chemical and physical data
Formula	N2O
3D model (JSmol)	Interactive image
SMILES [N-]=[N+]=O

Nitrous oxide (N₂O), commonly referred to with street names such as nangs, Nitrus, hippy crack, whippets, whippits or cannies, is an inert gas which can induce euphoria, hallucinogenic states of mind, and relaxation when inhaled.^[1] Nitrous oxide has no acute biochemical or cellular toxicity and is not metabolized in humans or other mammals. Rare deaths and injuries associated with use are due to asphyxia or accidents while under the influence, and vitamin B₁₂ deficiency. Excessive use can lead to long-term and significant neurological and haematological toxicity.^[2][3]

First recorded in the 18th century at upper-class "laughing gas parties", the experience was largely limited to medical students until the late 20th century when laws limiting access to the gas were loosened to supply dentists and hospitals. By the 2010s, nitrous oxide had become more popular as a recreational drug in the Western world and other nations.^[4]

Increasing recreational use has become a public health concern internationally due to the potential for long-term neurological damage following excessive use.^[1][2] Recreational users are often unaware of the risks associated with excessive use.^[5] Owing to the chemical's numerous legitimate uses, the sale and possession of nitrous oxide is legal in many countries, although some have criminalised supplying it for recreational purposes.