Background

It was discovered by a Brit, the scientist Joseph Priestley in 1772, but it was Bristolian chemist Humphrey Davy who first found out about the gas’ more recreational purposes, publishing his findings and manufacturing large quantities of the drug for parties, carnivals and other social events in the early 19th century.

Footballer Raheem Sterling was pictured at a night club taking it a couple of years ago.

Key Points

It is classed as both a Psychoactive Substance and Solvent.

Causes feelings of euphoria, giddiness and hallucinations.

It is inhaled by releasing the N2O from a canister into balloon/bag.

UK uses Nitrous recreationally more than any country in the world.

It is the 2^nd most popular drug in the UK.

10^th most popular globally (excluding alcohol, tobacco and caffeine).

The Law

If found to be supplying N2O on the street you face up to 7 years in prison. This includes being found in possession of the larger N2O canisters from a Hospital/Medical Centre if the canister is labelled for medical use only.

HOWEVER

You can buy the canisters legally in bulk if you buy them in “Catering” and can distribute them to individuals if they say they are using them for “Catering Reasons”.

Effects on the body

It was added to the list of banned substances under The Psychoactive Substances Act 2016 for the following effects it has on the body:

• Due to the fact it is inhaled it can cause a spasm of the throat leading to asphyxiation and possibly death.
• Initial use can also cause headaches.
• Continued use causes severe nerve damage and also leads to a Vitamin B12 deficiency.
•  It also has been linked to stopping the formation of White Blood Cells in the body.