The intoxicant was only placed on List II of the Opium Act on 1 January 2023, making it illegal. This centuries-old substance is also used for legal purposes and, despite requiring a licence, can therefore sometimes still be easily accessible. Inhaled from a balloon, it causes a brief high. What many users do not realise, however, is the potential risk of developing a nitrous oxide addiction.
Although nitrous oxide is not among the most potent intoxicants, its risk of addiction is primarily psychological. Because the high lasts only a short time (one to five minutes), users often inhale several balloons in succession.
Frequent use creates tolerance and an urge to take the substance at specific times. Understanding this addictive cycle is crucial for raising awareness of the potential consequences of this seemingly harmless recreational drug.
Nitrous oxide, also known as dinitrogen monoxide, has historically been used recreationally, as well as as an anaesthetic in dental practices and minor operations. The high resembles that produced by other anaesthetics, with users experiencing a drunken feeling.
Frequent use can, however, lead to dizziness, fainting, nausea and even loss of consciousness. In addition to physical side effects such as cold burns, tingling and numbness, psychological effects can range from distorted vision and delayed hearing to fits of laughter or feelings of anxiety.
Prolonged use also poses physical risks. One known problem is the development of vitamin B12 deficiency, which can cause nerve damage and symptoms of paralysis.
Although these symptoms can be reduced with physiotherapy and vitamin supplements, users often experience lasting damage such as persistent tingling, cold or numb limbs, muscle weakness, reduced fitness and impaired balance. Prolonged nitrous oxide use among adolescents also appears to affect the nervous system, indicating serious health risks from uncontrolled use.
Jordan (33): I must not underestimate my addiction
I had just gone to bed when I was completely overwhelmed. My entire family and Peggy-Sue were standing in my home. They then told me, “Things cannot go on like this; you have to do something about it.” The intervention, based on the Johnson Model, was completely unexpected, so it had a huge impact. I was given two choices: either I entered treatment, or I continued drinking and my family distanced themselves from me. It frightened me terribly, but I accepted the help straight away.
Joke (38): The personal contact between us was wonderful
I was at my wits' end because of my brother's addiction and wanted to take action. I soon found Peggy-Sue online. She gave me a great deal of clear information about the illness of addiction. She was professional and direct, so I felt comfortable with her almost immediately.
I truly needed the confrontation
Peggy-Sue unexpectedly arrived at my home with my family. It was incredibly confronting, and I reacted very strongly. But I truly needed that confrontation. It was extremely difficult, and it still is, but I do not regret it for a second.
Together, we consider appropriate help: outpatient treatment, residential treatment, detox, intervention or family support. The pathway is tailored to the situation and its urgency.
"I had to choose between two evils. It was either call Peggy-Sue or choose my illness. The support gave me direction again."
Saskia (aged 27)
"I truly needed that confrontation. My family and Peggy-Sue showed me that things could not continue this way."
Jordan (aged 33)
"Peggy-Sue helped me understand what addiction is and what recovery can look like in practical terms."
Victor (aged 22)
