Nitrous oxide, frequently known as “laughing gas,” is a commonly used recreational substance, notably among younger demographics. Its low cost and ease of online procurement have contributed to its rising popularity. Nevertheless, sustained use may result in significant neurological complications due to a functional deficiency in vitamin B12. Primary symptoms of this deficiency can manifest as spinal cord injuries, nerve impairment, and behavioral irregularities. It is recommended that healthcare professionals query patients about their usage of nitrous oxide if they exhibit symptoms indicative of a vitamin B12 shortage.
Nitrous oxide is not merely a recreational substance favored by the younger population but also serves as an anesthetic often employed in dental and pediatric medical procedures. Its cost-effectiveness and easy online availability have led many to use it for a quick euphoric experience. According to the 2021 Global Drug Survey, 10% of all participants, and 15% of those from Canada, reported using the substance within the past year.
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Rising Apprehensions Among Medical Experts
Dr. Cyrille De Halleux, an expert in internal medicine, critical care, and a resident at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), and the chief fellow in the Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Toronto, states, “The affordability and accessibility of nitrous oxide have rendered it a commonly used recreational substance, particularly among younger demographics.”
Health Risks Associated with Nitrous Oxide Usage
Long-term consumption of nitrous oxide can induce a functional deficiency in vitamin B12, leading to enduring health impacts, primarily affecting the neurological system. The most frequent manifestations of this toxicity are damage to the spinal cord (myelopathy), nerve impairment affecting both strength and sensory perception (neuropathy), and behavioral disorders (encephalopathy). Treatment protocols generally involve ceasing the usage of the substance, supplementing with vitamin B12, and administering methionine.
Medical practitioners are urged to investigate potential nitrous oxide usage in patients presenting unexplained symptoms that may be indicative of a vitamin B12 deficiency or other related neurological conditions, the authors recommend.
Reference: “Diagnosis and management of toxicity associated with the recreational use of nitrous oxide” by Cyrille De Halleux and David N. Juurlink, published on 21 August 2023, in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.230196
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Nitrous oxide neurological risks
What is the main subject of the article?
The main subject of the article is the severe and permanent neurological risks associated with the recreational use of nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas.”
Who is particularly at risk according to the article?
The article specifically highlights that younger individuals are more prone to using nitrous oxide recreationally due to its affordability and easy online accessibility.
What health risks are specifically associated with chronic use of nitrous oxide?
Chronic use of nitrous oxide can lead to functional vitamin B12 deficiency, resulting in neurological complications. The primary symptoms include spinal cord damage (myelopathy), nerve damage affecting strength and sensation (neuropathy), and behavioral abnormalities (encephalopathy).
What do medical experts recommend for clinicians encountering patients with symptoms?
Medical professionals are advised to question patients about their nitrous oxide usage if they present with symptoms that are indicative of a vitamin B12 deficiency or other compatible neurological symptoms.
What treatment options are available for those affected by nitrous oxide toxicity?
Treatment generally involves ceasing the use of the substance, supplementing with vitamin B12, and administering methionine to mitigate the neurological symptoms.
What statistics are cited about nitrous oxide usage?
The article references the 2021 Global Drug Survey, in which 10% of all respondents and 15% of Canadian respondents reported using nitrous oxide in the past year.
Who are the medical experts cited in the article?
Dr. Cyrille De Halleux, an expert in internal medicine and critical care, is cited. He is also a resident at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and the chief fellow in the Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Toronto.
What is the source of the article?
The article is sourced from a publication titled “Diagnosis and management of toxicity associated with the recreational use of nitrous oxide,” published on 21 August 2023 in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. The DOI is 10.1503/cmaj.230196.
More about Nitrous oxide neurological risks
- Diagnosis and Management of Nitrous Oxide Toxicity
- 2021 Global Drug Survey Results
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Neurological Disorders
- Canadian Medical Association Journal Article on Nitrous Oxide
- The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) Research Publications
6 comments
Wow, can’t believe 15% of Canadians used it last year. That’s pretty high. Good to know the risks, forewarned is forearmed right?
im a nurse and yeah, we’re seeing more young ppl coming in with weird symptoms. Never connected the dots to nitrous oxide though, so this is eye-opening!
Didn’t even know it could cause vitamin B12 deficiency, that’s new. Good article, thx for sharing!
Wow, had no idea laughing gas could be so dangerous. Makes ya think twice about using it for fun, huh?
Have to admit, I’ve tried it before and never thought much of it. The risks sound pretty severe, def not messing with that again.
Seriously concerning. I’ve got young cousins who think it’s just a laugh. Gonna share this article with my fam.