NOS (Nitrous Oxide) - advice for staying safe
This page will give you information about nitrous oxide, its effects, and how to stay safe if you or someone you know is using it.
Understanding nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas or NOS, is a gas that people sometimes use recreationally. It's often inhaled for its brief and intense effects. It can make you feel happy and relaxed, but it can also make you feel dizzy and sick.
The effects of nitrous oxide start very quickly after you’ve taken it, and they go away very quickly.
Nitrous oxide is a Class C drug and it is therefore illegal to have it in your possession.
There are some exceptions for people who use nitrous oxide in their work, such as medical or culinary staff. You might be expected to show evidence that you have nitrous oxide for a legitimate reason. It is illegal to have it on you without one of these reasons.
You can be arrested and charged for having nitrous oxide in your possession. You might get an unlimited fine, a visible community punishment, or a caution which will appear on your criminal record. If you get caught multiple times, you could even get a prison sentence of up to two years.
There are also laws against drug driving like there are for drink driving.
Nitrous oxide side effects and risks
It can be very dangerous if used in certain ways. Inhaling nitrous oxide straight from the canister is very dangerous. The gas inside the cannister is very cold and can seriously damage your throat and lungs.
Inhaling nitrous oxide by putting a bag over your head is also very dangerous, and people have died from doing it.
It can affect your body in different ways. Inhaling nitrous oxide can cause oxygen levels in your body to drop, which can be dangerous. It can also cause sore, red eyes and irritate parts of your body that help you breathe well.
It can cause vitamin deficiencies. Doing lots of it can make you low in vitamin B12. This can cause anaemia (low iron), nerve damage and other problems.
Keeping yourself safe
There are ways to reduce the risks of using nitrous oxide:
Always use a balloon to inhale. Inhaling from a tube, mask, or straight from the dispenser can be dangerous. Always use a device to release the gas first and use a balloon to inhale. This helps to stop the gas damaging your throat and lungs. Never inhale from a bag over the head.
Use in a safe environment. Don’t inhale while you’re standing up, or where you could fall and injure yourself (eg. near a steep drop or a body of water).
Don't use alone. If you're using nitrous oxide, do it with trusted friends who can help if you experience any bad effects.
Avoid mixing with other substances. Combining substances can be dangerous and cause bad reactions. This includes alcohol. Alcohol and nitrous oxide are both depressants – combining them increases the risk of side effects and accidents.
Don't be afraid to call for help. If someone might be having problems because of nitrous oxide, call for help.
If someone is unconscious or having difficulty breathing, always call 999. Don't worry; the ambulance won't bring the police unless it's a very specific situation.
Place the person in the recovery position. Here’s a quick guide to the recovery position. If you don’t remember, get them on their side.
Naloxone, the drug that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, does not work on nitrous oxide.
Getting support with nitrous oxide
If you want to take steps to address your drug use, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. You’re not alone and there's nothing to be ashamed of. There is lots of help and support available. Speak to your doctor about how you’re feeling and speak to supportive family and friends if you can.
Advice and support is always available from your local Change Grow Live Service. If you’re struggling with drugs or alcohol, we’re here to help.