Organizations support new policies to regulate access to protect public health
The Michigan Society of Anesthesiologists(MSA), Michigan Dental Association (MDA) and Michigan Poison & Drug Information Center (MiPDC) are joining forces to warn the public of the risks of recreational nitrous oxide use.
Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, is a colorless and tasteless gas commonly used for sedation and pain relief. Anesthesiologists, dentists and other medical professionals use it to sedate patients undergoing minor medical procedures. It also is sometimes used to treat people withdrawing from alcohol dependence.
In non-medical settings, it is used as a food additive for whipped cream and to enhance engine performance in the automotive industry.
However, nitrous oxide is also used by people recreationally to get high.
“We are committed to protecting public health and safety and that includes educating the public on the serious implications of recreational nitrous oxide use,” said Dr. Michael Lewis, president of the MSA. “Nitrous oxide is one of many aesthetics used in hospital operating rooms and dental offices. Anesthesiologists administer nitrous oxide carefully, with oxygen and monitoring, to keep patients safe. Using nitrous oxide recreationally use is dangerous — it can cause oxygen deprivation, nerve damage and even sudden death. It’s not worth the risk.”
“Nitrous oxide gas is a dangerous chemical when it is not administered by a trained professional,” said Dr. Todd Christy, president of the MDA. “People need to understand that the recreational use of this chemical can cause serious harm to an individual. Nitrous oxide when used properly is beneficial, but its misuse must be strongly discouraged.”
If inhaled directly from tanks or crackers (a handheld device used to “crack” a nitrous oxide bulb/whippet), the gas is intensely cold (-40 degrees Fahrenheit) and can cause frostbite to the nose, lips and throat, including vocal cords. As the gas is also under constant pressure, it can cause ruptures in lung tissue when inhaled directly from these containers, and faulty gas dispensers can explode, causing physical harm.
Combining nitrous oxide with stimulants and other drugs can place additional pressure on the heart, increase blood pressure and disrupt heart rate. Taking nitrous oxide while drinking can also increase nausea and dizziness and may result in vomiting.
Regular use or prolonged exposure to nitrous oxide may result in memory loss, vitamin B12 depletion causing brain and nerve damage, ringing or buzzing in the ears, incontinence, numbness in the hands or feet, limb spasms, potential birth defects if used during pregnancy, weakened immune system, disruption to reproductive system, depression, psychological dependence and psychosis.
Signs of nitrous oxide overdose can include loss of consciousness caused by a fall in blood pressure, asphyxia (when the body is deprived of oxygen), irregular heartbeat and seizures. In the event of an emergency, call 911.
“The Michigan Poison & Drug Information Center has observed an increasing prevalence of consultations related to nitrous oxide misuse-related adverse health effects,” Dr. Varun Vohra, senior director and clinical toxicologist consultant with the MiPDC. “These cases often involve teenagers and young adults. Widespread availability, ease of access and its current legal status may contribute to users perceiving nitrous oxide as providing a safe and ‘legal high.’
“However, the MiPDC warns that the recreational use of nitrous oxide is dangerous and can lead to many serious physical and mental health outcomes, including paralysis, addiction, and death. Unfortunately, many recreational nitrous oxide users are not aware of the dangers until it is too late. Outreach and education that target users, parents/caregivers and clinicians regarding the toxic effects of nitrous oxide use and the associated clinical challenges are imperative.”
The public can contact the MiPDC 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 800-222-1222 to speak to a specialist or board-certified toxicologist or visit mipoisonhelp.org and the center’s social media platforms for the latest updates.
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