What is laughing gas?
Laughing gas, also known as nitrous oxide, is a chemical compound with the formula N2O. It is a colorless gas that is commonly used for sedation and pain relief, especially in dentistry and medicine. It is called “laughing gas” due to the euphoric effects and feeling of dissociation it can produce. When inhaled, nitrous oxide can cause analgesia, anxiolysis, mild euphoria, and hallucinations.
How does laughing gas work?
Nitrous oxide works by blocking pain signals in the brain. When inhaled, it quickly crosses the blood-brain barrier. In the brain, it antagonizes NMDA receptors and activates opioid receptors, which are responsible for regulating pain perception. This prevents pain signals from reaching the brain, resulting in pain relief.
Nitrous oxide also triggers the release of endorphins in the brain. Endorphins are the body’s natural “feel good” chemicals that promote feelings of euphoria and relaxation. The boost in endorphins from nitrous oxide is responsible for the mild dissociative effects and feelings of calmness it can induce.
Uses of laughing gas
Some common uses of laughing gas include:
- Dentistry – One of the most well-known uses of nitrous oxide is for sedation and pain relief during dental procedures. It allows the patient to remain conscious while reducing anxiety, discomfort, and pain.
- Childbirth – Nitrous oxide may be administered during labor to help manage pain and anxiety during childbirth.
- Minor surgery – Laughing gas can be used to sedate and relax patients undergoing minor surgical procedures.
- Recreational use – Due to its dissociative and euphoric effects, nitrous oxide is also used recreationally at dance parties and music festivals.
Does laughing gas work on everyone?
The effects of nitrous oxide can vary substantially between different people. While laughing gas does tend to produce pain relief and mild euphoria in most people, some individuals may experience little to no effects. Factors that influence an individual’s response can include:
Genetic differences
Studies suggest there are genetic differences in how responsive people are to the effects of nitrous oxide. Certain genetic variants may reduce the potency and efficacy of nitrous oxide as an analgesic and anesthetic. This means people with specific genetic differences may require higher doses to experience the desired effects.
Natural tolerance
Some people may have a naturally higher tolerance to nitrous oxide, meaning they need to inhale more to feel the same effects as someone with a low natural tolerance. Tolerance can depend on an individual’s body size and metabolism. People who are larger or have faster metabolisms tend to need more nitrous oxide to experience the full effects.
Health conditions
Certain health conditions could potentially impact how someone reacts to laughing gas. For example, people with vitamin B12 deficiency may have a heightened response. Those with neurological, psychological, or respiratory conditions, on the other hand, may have a reduced sensitivity.
Medications and drug interactions
Other medications or drugs in someone’s system could interact with nitrous oxide, enhancing or diminishing its effects. Drugs that act on GABA receptors, like alcohol and benzodiazepines, are known to increase the effects of nitrous oxide. On the other hand, stimulants like cocaine may overpower the sedating effects.
Age
Age can also play a role in nitrous oxide sensitivity. As people get older, the effects of nitrous oxide may lessen due to a decline in NMDA receptors in the brain. This means the elderly may require higher doses of laughing gas to experience pain relief or euphoria.
Psychological factors
An individual’s current mindset and environment can impact their response to laughing gas. If someone is already feeling relaxed and calm, they are more likely to experience the pleasant, euphoric effects. If someone is anxious or in a chaotic setting, they may not experience the desired effects.
Pros and cons of using laughing gas
Pros
Some benefits of using nitrous oxide include:
- Fast acting – Effects are rapid when inhaled, within 30-60 seconds.
- Short duration – The effects only last for 3-5 minutes per dose.
- Pain relief – Provides analgesia by blocking pain signals.
- Anxiolysis – Causes feelings of relaxation and reduces anxiety.
- Minimal side effects – Considered safe when administered correctly in medical settings.
- Non-invasive – Can be self-administered by breathing through a mask.
Cons
Some potential downsides are:
- Hypoxia risk – High doses can potentially deprive the body of adequate oxygen.
- Disorientation – May cause temporary disorientation, dizziness, or confusion.
- Nausea/vomiting – Some individuals experience nausea or vomiting, especially with prolonged use.
- Recreational misuse – Has a potential for abuse due to its euphoric effects.
- Vitamin B12 depletion – Long-term or heavy use can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency.
Who should avoid laughing gas?
While considered relatively safe in medical settings, nitrous oxide does carry some risks and may not be appropriate for everyone. Individuals who should use caution or avoid laughing gas include:
- Pregnant women – May impact fetal development due to oxygen deprivation.
- People with respiratory issues – Such as asthma, COPD, or cystic fibrosis.
- Individuals with psychological disorders – Such as schizophrenia or BPD.
- People with heart disease or high blood pressure.
- Those with a cobalamin (vitamin B12) deficiency.
- People taking antidepressants, benzodiazepines, or stimulants due to drug interactions.
- Recovering drug abusers due to potential for misuse.
It’s recommended to discuss any pre-existing medical conditions with your dentist or doctor before using nitrous oxide. Proper patient screening helps reduce the risks.
Techniques to enhance the effects
There are a few methods that may help enhance the pleasurable effects of nitrous oxide:
Breathing techniques
Inhaling deeply and holding nitrous oxide in for 20-30 seconds before exhaling can allow more of the gas to enter the bloodstream and maximize the effects. However, only hold breath for a safe, comfortable duration.
Use a mask
A well-fitted mask creates a reservoir of concentrated nitrous oxide to inhale. This prevents dilution with room air and makes each inhalation more potent.
Take a multivitamin
Supplementing with a vitamin B12 before using nitrous may help reduce side effects and keep the effects from diminishing with repeated use.
Get comfortable
Laying down in a comfortable environment with calming music may enhance the pleasant, relaxing effects of the nitrous oxide “high”.
Pair with other drugs
While risky, some substances like cannabis or alcohol can provide a synergistic effect when combined with nitrous oxide. This is dangerous though, only combine under medical supervision.
Safety tips for using laughing gas
When using nitrous oxide, it’s important to follow certain safety precautions:
- Don’t inhale directly from tanks – Only use balloons to avoid frostbite.
- Don’t overuse – Only inhale enough to feel the effects, avoid hypoxia.
- Take breaks between inhalations – Allow oxygen levels to return to normal.
- Sit down when inhaling – Avoid falling and injury.
- Stay hydrated – Dehydration worsens side effects like headaches.
- Avoid alcohol and other drugs.
- Use vitamin B12 supplement.
Never use nitrous oxide while operating heavy machinery or vehicles, as it impairs coordination and judgment. It’s also critical to only use medical-grade nitrous oxide – never use whippets or other recreational chargers, which can contain dangerous contaminants.
Conclusion
In conclusion, nitrous oxide provides pain relief, mild euphoria, and feelings of relaxation to most people when inhaled. However, there is individual variation in response, with factors like genetics, tolerance, health conditions, and medications affecting sensitivity. While generally safe when used correctly under medical supervision, nitrous oxide can be risky if improperly used recreationally long-term. Carefully following usage and safety guidelines reduces potential risks. When administered appropriately, laughing gas provides a fast-acting, non-invasive means of sedation and pain management.