What is nitrous oxide? Where can you buy nitrous oxide and is it legal?

Table of contents Nitrous oxide

What is nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide, or nitrous oxide (N2O), is a colorless and odorless gas that is often used in medicine and dentistry. It has a long history of use to reduce pain and create a relaxing sensation. The gas is an effective pain reliever, often administered through a mask to provide short-term anesthesia for various medical procedures, particularly dental and minor surgical procedures. Nitrous oxide works by affecting the central nervous system and relieves anxiety, pain and creates a euphoric feeling.

In addition to medical uses, nitrous oxide has become popular as a recreational drug. When the gas is inhaled in small amounts, it produces a quick, short-lived high that is often accompanied by laughter and a sense of lightness. Because nitrous oxide is available as a propellant in products such as whipped cream containers, it has become a popular but potentially dangerous substance of abuse.

Despite its use in medicine, there are risks with nitrous oxide. Prolonged or excessive use can cause oxygen deficiency, nerve damage and other health problems. It is also illegal in some countries to use nitrous oxide for recreational purposes.

What does nitrous oxide mean?

Nitrous oxide, also known as nitrous oxide (N2O), is a chemical compound consisting of two nitrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. It is a colorless and odorless gas that is used for various purposes, both in medicine and for recreational purposes. Originally, nitrous oxide was primarily used as an anesthetic in dentistry and medicine to dull pain and create a sedative effect. Because of its pain-relieving properties, it is also used in certain surgical procedures.

When nitrous oxide is inhaled, it causes a rapid euphoric rush and laughter, hence the name "nitrous oxide". This effect is short-lived and dose-dependent. Nitrous oxide works by affecting the central nervous system and inducing a temporary change in perception and emotion, creating a feeling of relaxation or loss of control.

Nitrous oxide is also known to be used as a propellant in products such as whipped cream containers, making it available for people to use in contexts other than medical care as well. Despite its use in medicine, there is a certain risk of abuse, as long-term inhalation can lead to health problems such as lack of oxygen or nerve damage.

What positive effects does nitrous oxide have?

Nitrous oxide, or nitrous oxide (N2O), has several useful and positive effects, especially in medicine and dentistry. It is a fast-acting gas that causes a feeling of relaxation and pain relief without causing unconsciousness. One of the primary benefits of nitrous oxide is its ability to relieve pain during short-term medical procedures, such as dental procedures and surgical procedures. It is often used as part of so-called "nitrous gas anesthesia", where the patient is awake but relaxed during the treatments.

Another positive effect is that nitrous oxide can help reduce anxiety and nervousness, allowing patients to feel more relaxed before medical procedures. This makes nitrous oxide a popular option for patients who have a fear of dentistry or for nervous patients who need to undergo other minor surgical procedures. Because the effects of nitrous oxide are short-lived and disappear quickly after it is inhaled, it is relatively safe for most people to use with no long-term side effects.

Nitrous oxide has also been shown to be effective in relieving pain during childbirth, although it is more of an adjunct than a main treatment. Its use as pain relief during childbirth gives women an opportunity to manage pain without using more invasive pain relievers.

Positive effects of nitrous oxide:

  • Pain relief during dental treatment and surgical procedures.
  • Reduces anxiety and nervousness before medical procedures.
  • Short-term and fast effect without long-term side effects.
  • Helps with pain relief during childbirth.
  • Relatively safe and controlled when used in medical contexts.

What are the negative effects of nitrous oxide?

Despite its positive properties, nitrous oxide, or nitrous oxide (N2O), can also have negative effects, especially if used excessively or incorrectly. One of the biggest risks is that long-term or high-dose inhalation can lead to a lack of oxygen. Because nitrous oxide replaces oxygen in the blood, it can cause dizziness, loss of coordination and, in severe cases, unconsciousness. This means that it should be used with caution and under controlled conditions, such as in medical or dental situations.

Another negative effect is that nitrous oxide can affect the nervous system when abused. With repeated use or abuse, it can lead to nerve damage, numbness or tingling in the arms and legs. This is because long-term use can interfere with the body's ability to maintain adequate levels of vitamin B12, which is essential for the functioning of the nervous system.

Nitrous oxide can also cause unpleasant side effects such as nausea, headache and dizziness, especially if the dose is too high. These side effects are often short-lived, but can be unpleasant. Abuse of nitrous oxide can also lead to dependence, making it a substance that should be handled with care.

Negative effects of nitrous oxide:

  • Risk of oxygen deficiency with high-dose inhalation.
  • Nerve damage and vitamin B12 deficiency in long-term abuse.
  • Nausea, headache and dizziness at high doses.
  • Potentially addictive if abused.
  • Loss of coordination and unconsciousness with overuse.

Is nitrous oxide legal in Sweden?

Yes, nitrous oxide is legal in Sweden and can be used for both medical and recreational purposes. In medical contexts, such as dentistry or surgery, nitrous oxide is used as a pain reliever and anti-anxiety agent under carefully monitored conditions.

When it comes to recreational use, nitrous oxide is also legal to purchase and possess, as long as it is not sold for use in a way that endangers the individual or is done in an illegal manner. This means that people can buy nitrous oxide for, for example, cooking, such as whipping cream in siphons, without breaking the law.

However, there is some control from the authorities regarding the sale and use of nitrous oxide for abuse. It is illegal to sell nitrous oxide to promote abuse or to be used as an intoxicant. The police can intervene if there is evidence that nitrous oxide is being sold for recreational use, as excessive or incorrect use can pose health risks, such as lack of oxygen or nerve damage.

Is nitrous oxide classified as dangerous goods (ADR)?

Yes, nitrous oxide (nitrogen oxide, N2O) is classified as dangerous goods according to ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road). As nitrous oxide is transported under pressure in gas cylinders, it poses a risk of damage in the event of incorrect handling or storage. Therefore, nitrous oxide is subject to special rules for transport and storage aimed at minimizing the risks of accidents.

It falls under the category of "dangerous gases" in the ADR regulations, which requires it to be transported with appropriate safety precautions. When nitrous oxide is used or transported, it is important to follow the regulations to ensure safety, both for people who handle it and for the environment.

Is nitrous oxide illegal in Sweden?

No, nitrous oxide is not illegal in Sweden when it is used for legal purposes. Nitrous oxide is used, among other things, in medicine and dentistry for pain relief and anxiety reduction, where it is administered under professional supervision. It is also common for nitrous oxide to be used in the food industry, for example in cream siphons.

It becomes illegal if nitrous oxide is sold or used for recreational abuse, which poses health risks. The sale of nitrous oxide to promote abuse, or if it is used to create an intoxication, is prohibited. The authorities can intervene if there is evidence that nitrous oxide is being sold for use in this way, as it can lead to serious health problems such as lack of oxygen or nerve damage if used excessively.

What do the authorities think about nitrous oxide and its use?

The authorities in Sweden have an ambivalent attitude to nitrous oxide, depending on its area of ​​use. When nitrous oxide is used for medical purposes, for example for pain relief during dentistry or during operations, it is a fully accepted and regulated treatment. This ensures that the gas is used safely under professional supervision. Likewise, nitrous oxide is an approved ingredient in the food industry, where it is used in, for example, cream siphons to create whipped cream.

The problem arises when nitrous oxide is used for recreational purposes, such as in abuse. Authorities take the abuse of nitrous oxide seriously, as excessive use can lead to serious health risks. At higher doses, a lack of oxygen can occur, which can lead to unconsciousness, nerve damage and, in the worst case, death. Abuse of nitrous oxide is illegal and can lead to prosecution for violating the Narcotics Ordinance if the gas is sold for abuse.

The police and the Swedish Customs Service have taken measures to stop the illegal sale of nitrous oxide for recreational use, and authorities urge the public to be aware of the risks of abuse. Selling nitrous oxide for consumption without medical or industrial use is considered illegal and may lead to legal action.

Overall, the authorities' view of nitrous oxide is that it is approved for some legal uses but illegal for abuse, where the health risks are high.

How does nitrous oxide affect the body?

Nitrous oxide, or nitrous oxide (N₂O), affects the body by quickly giving a feeling of euphoria and relaxation. When the gas is inhaled, it enters the bloodstream and affects the central nervous system, leading to temporary impairment of body functions. This makes the user feel calm and relaxed, while reducing pain and discomfort, which is why it is used in medical contexts.

In recreational use, excessive use of nitrous oxide can lead to dangerous effects. Lack of oxygen is a serious risk, which can cause unconsciousness or damage to the nervous system. Long-term or frequent use can also affect vitamin B12 levels in the body, which can lead to neurological problems and damage. Therefore, it is important to use nitrous oxide only under safe and controlled circumstances.

Effects of nitrous oxide:

  • Temporary euphoria and relaxation
  • Decreased sensitivity to pain
  • Risk of oxygen deficiency with excessive use
  • Possible nerve damage with long-term use
  • Disturbances in vitamin B12 levels with frequent use

Is nitrous oxide visible in urine and pee samples?

Nitrous oxide, or nitrous oxide (N₂O), does not leave any long-term traces in the body, which means it cannot be detected in urine or urine samples. Because nitrous oxide is rapidly metabolized and eliminated through respiration, it disappears from the system within minutes to hours after use. This means that even if you were to take a urine or pee test shortly after use, it is not likely that nitrous oxide will be detected.

It is important to understand that nitrous oxide is not stored in the body's tissues or fat, which means that traces of the gas quickly disappear. Thus, it is not a substance that is routinely screened for in drug tests or other types of sampling. However, if nitrous oxide is abused in large amounts or over a long period of time, it can potentially affect health and cause long-term effects that can be seen in other tests, but not directly through urine tests.

Summary:

  • Nitrous oxide leaves no traces in urine samples
  • The gas is quickly eliminated from the body
  • Cannot be detected via urine test

What research is there on nitrous oxide?

Research on nitrous oxide, or nitrous oxide (N₂O), has been conducted in a variety of contexts, from medical use to studies on its potential dangers in recreational use. Nitrous oxide is used in healthcare as a pain reliever and anti-anxiety agent, which has been documented in a number of scientific articles. An article published in the British Journal of Anesthesia (2019) describes the use of nitrous oxide in anesthesia and analgesia, where it is considered effective for short-term pain relief without the serious side effects that other anesthetic agents can cause.

Research on nitrous oxide as a substance of abuse is more controversial. A study published in Addiction (2017) examined the recreational use of nitrous oxide and showed dangerous consequences of long-term abuse, including nerve damage and effects on vitamin B12 levels. Another study from the Journal of Neuroscience (2018) linked long-term use of nitrous oxide to changes in the nervous system and health damage related to oxygen deprivation, which can occur if the gas is used in excessive amounts.

There is also research into the potential use of nitrous oxide in psychology, with a study from Psychopharmacology (2016) discussing the effect of nitrous oxide on mood and stress levels. It showed that short-term use can reduce anxiety and increase well-being, but with the risk of addiction and long-term health consequences.

Research sources:

  • British Journal of Anaesthesia , 2019
  • Addiction , 2017
  • Journal of Neuroscience , 2018
  • Psychopharmacology , 2016

What is the history of nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide, or nitrous oxide (N₂O), has a long and fascinating history stretching back to the late 18th century. It was first discovered by the English chemist Joseph Priestley in 1772. Priestley identified nitrous oxide as a gas produced by heating ammonium nitrate. His work led to the use of nitrous oxide for experimental purposes in chemistry.

During the early 19th century, associated with the Romantic era, nitrous oxide began to gain attention in popular culture, where it was used at social events and "nitrous gas parties". These parties were popular among both the middle and upper classes, and those who used the gas reported euphoric and laughter-inducing effects. This led to nitrous oxide being nicknamed "laughing gas" in the US and UK.

At the beginning of the 19th century, nitrous oxide also began to be used in medicine. In 1844, the American dentist Horace Wells carried out a historic demonstration of the pain-relieving properties of nitrous oxide. He used the gas on a patient during a tooth extraction, paving the way for its use in anesthesia. This was an important step in the development of modern pain relief methods and surgical procedures.

The use of nitrous oxide as an anesthetic continued to develop during the 20th century and became a common part of surgical procedures and dentistry. Although it was initially popular as a recreational substance, its potential harmful effects on health began to be noticed in the latter part of the 20th century. The use of nitrous oxide for recreational purposes has therefore become more controversial.

Today, nitrous oxide is mainly used in medicine and dentistry as a safe and effective pain reliever, while its recreational use is still debated from both a social and medical perspective.

Is there an age limit on nitrous oxide?

Yes, with us there is an age limit of 18 years to buy nitrous oxide products. This applies to ensure that the product is used in a responsible and safe manner. As nitrous oxide can have effects on body and mind, it is important that use takes place under proper guidance and that young people are not exposed to risks associated with abuse or incorrect use. The age limit is a way to limit access and prevent inappropriate use among minors.

Can I use nitrous oxide in a public place?

Yes, you get it, the use of nitrous oxide in public places is not specifically regulated in Swedish law, but it is important to understand the potential risks and consequences. Abuse of nitrous oxide can lead to serious health problems and can be offensive to other people. The use of nitrous oxide can also create disturbances in public environments, which may result in fines or other legal action depending on the circumstances.

It is therefore important to always use nitrous oxide in a responsible manner and to be aware of how use can affect both your health and the environment.

5 quick questions about nitrous oxide

Can nitrous oxide cause addiction?

Yes, nitrous oxide can create psychological dependence if it is used often and in large quantities. Although not physically addictive, regular use can lead to a habit that is hard to break.

How fast does nitrous oxide appear?

Nitrous oxide produces a rapid effect and most users experience feelings of euphoria and laughter within seconds of inhaling. The effects usually only last for a few minutes.

Is it dangerous to use nitrous oxide without supervision?

Yes, unsupervised use can be dangerous. Risks include lack of oxygen, unconsciousness, or serious injury if the gas is inhaled too quickly or in excessive amounts.

What other names have nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide is also called nitrous oxide (N₂O), and on the street terms like "happy gas" or "laughing gas" are sometimes used to describe the effects.

Can nitrous oxide affect the brain in the long term?

Yes, prolonged and excessive use of nitrous oxide can affect the nervous system and cause damage to the brain, especially to vitamin B12 levels and nerve function.