NITROUS OXIDE (anesthetic)

laughing gas | poppers | whip-its | rush | liquid gold

A colorless, sweet-smelling gas that is inhaled from pressurized containers.

Source: The lab.

Legal code: Legal, it's typically used for minor oral surgery and dental work.

History: Nitrous oxide was synthesized by scientists in the late 1700s as an anesthetic and pain reliever. It was quickly named "laughing gas" and was widely used in England in a recreational way. In the 1800s dentists started using it during painful procedures.

Effects: Giddiness, a dreamy or floating sensation, and a mild, pain-free state for a few seconds, followed by drowsiness.

Risks: Lack of oxygen is a major risk. When nitrous oxide is monitored in a doctor's office as an anesthetic, it's considered a safe pharmaceutical agent. But the gas comes from a pressurized tank and when it's used recreationally, it's freezing and can cause frostbite of the nose, lips and possibly the vocal cords. Other immediate effects following use include nausea, fatigue, lack of coordination, disorientation and loss of appetite.

There is some evidence that excessive or prolonged use of nitrous oxide can also damage the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and bone marrow.

Do not combine with: Anything that makes you sleepy (i.e., alcohol, opiates, sedatives and cold medicines).

Addiction rating: Low.