NOS – Nitrous Oxide (NO2)

The type of Nitrous Oxide intended for culinary or industrial use is now commonly available in bars, clubs and convenience stores. This industrial strength NOS may contain high levels of unknown contaminants that add to the dangers of using it.

NOS and the Law

Nitrous Oxide is a prescription medicine, and under the Medicines Act 1981, it is illegal to sell prescription medicines without a prescription from a health professional. After clarification from the Crown Law Office in April 2005, the sale of nitrous oxide for inhalation is therefore regarded as illegal and it cannot be sold for recreational purposes.

Reducing the risk of inhaling NOS

No use – no risk

Use Balloons – inhaling the gas using balloons reduces lung damage from pressure, and burns from the cold gas.

Take breaks between inhalations to reduce the effects of oxygen deprivation (hypoxia).

Avoid automotive industry NOS or any home-made NOS Preparations, as these can contain unknown substances.

Don’t inhale and drive – Never inhale NOS while driving or operating machinery.

Sit down when using NOS, as it affects balance.

Don’t eat during NOS sessions, to reduce the risk of choking.

Avoid taking other drugs if having a NOS session. This includes uppers and downers, and alcohol. As NOS is a sedative, combining two or more sedative drugs can increase the risk of overdose.

Never use a facemask or any other equipment that attaches to the head if inhaling NOS from a tank. If you lose consciousness with the mask on, you risk brain damage through lack of oxygen.

Have plenty of fresh air when using NOS. Never use in a confined space such as a car, wardrobe or unventilated area.

What are the risks in inhaling NOS?

The effect of NOS inhalation comes on immediately, reaching a peak within a few seconds. The buzz lasts about a minute, and repeated inhalations make the effects last longer. The buzz includes a euphoric rush, a feeling of floating, possibly pain relief, temporary loss of balance and co-ordination. For some, the experience can also include mild audio and visual hallucinations and fixated or tunnel-like vision.

There are three main physical risks in inhaling directly through a cracker or canister:

• Frostbite to the lips, throat and vocal cords because the gas is so cold.
• Damage to the lungs from the high pressure of the gas coming out of the charger/canister.
• Hypoxia, brought on by inhaling NOS without breaks for air.

NOS is not generally considered to have the potential for physical dependency or cravings in the same way as nicotine, heroin and alcohol. Most people tend to only have the occasional NOS hit or session. However, it is possible to become psychologically dependent (believing you need it).  

Heavy use of NOS 

There are risks for those who use NOS in heavy doses and for a prolonged period of time.

Most of the risks seem to be related to low levels of Folic Acid and Vitamin B12. This depletion can cause the following complications:

• Damage to the central nervous  system – difficulty of not being able to control your body including difficulty walking, loss of  bladder and bowel control.
• Damage to the spinal cord
• Damage to the bone marrow
• High incidence of birth defects in pregnant users.
• Decreased fertility
• Decreased immunity to infections
• Possible risk of vein and blood related diseases.

Heavy and prolonged use of NOS has been associated with significant changes in people’s emotions and personalities. This is likely to be related to central nervous system damage and/or oxygen deprivation.

Use During Pregnancy

No use – no risk

There is evidence that heavy or repeated use of NOS carries a high risk of birth defects.