Increasing recreational nitrous oxide use: Should we worry? A narrative review

Abstract

Background: Since 2000, the prevalence of recreational nitrous oxide (N2O) use has increased in the Western world. Although N2O is a relatively safe drug, the overall increase in the use of N2O has concomitantly also initiated a modest but important increase in the number of young excessive users. The recent introduction of large 2 kg N2O tanks, allowing high and prolonged dosing, has facilitated this excessive use. This is of concern, because repeated exposure to high doses of N2O for a prolonged time is known to induce neurological damage, such as (irreversible) neuropathy and paralysis due to N2O-induced vitamin B12 deficiency. The increasing trend of recreational users with N2O-induced neurological damage at emergency departments confirms the urgency of this development. Objective/Methods: This narrative review describes recent trends in N2O use and misuse, the adverse health effects associated with excessive use and the risk factors of excessive use. Results: Considering the rising trend in N2O use, particularly among young and other vulnerable people, we propose to take legislative action to limit the availability of N2O, and also advocate for better and timely education of non-users, users and medical professionals about the serious side-effects associated with excessive N2O use. Conclusion: It is concluded that the increase in excessive N2O use is of serious concern.