Facts About Laughing Gas And Why NDLEA Banned It

After a public argument between Singer Olamide and Dr. Sina regarding the misuse of nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, the NDLEA has started a crackdown on its users across the country.

Here are some essential facts to know about Nitrous Oxide:

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What is Nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas or N2O, is a clear gas used for medical and non-medical purposes. Doctors use it as a dental anesthetic or pain relief during childbirth. But if people misuse it for fun and use too much, it can be harmful to their health.

What is Nitrous oxide abuse?

Nitrous oxide abuse happens when people use the gas for fun, not for medical reasons. They inhale it from small containers called “whippets” or “laughing gas bulbs.” These containers are usually used in kitchens to make whipped cream. But some people use them for the euphoric and disorienting feelings they get from inhaling the gas.

When people misuse nitrous oxide, they feel happy, dizzy, and their perception of things may change. They might also start laughing a lot, which is why it’s called “laughing gas.” These effects last for a short time and go away quickly after they stop inhaling. People often do this at social gatherings, like parties or music festivals.

Dangers Of Nitrous Oxide Abuse

Abusing nitrous oxide can be very dangerous, especially if used too much or with other substances. Here are some risks and negative consequences of nitrous oxide abuse:

1. Physical Injury: Mishandling nitrous oxide canisters can cause frostbite or burns, especially on the face, fingers, or other body parts close to the release point.
2. Interactions with Other Substances: Mixing nitrous oxide with alcohol or opioids can be very dangerous, causing severe respiratory depression, unconsciousness, and overdose.
3. Oxygen Deprivation: Inhaling nitrous oxide can replace oxygen in the lungs, leading to a lack of oxygen reaching the brain and organs. This can cause dizziness, confusion, and even unconsciousness. In severe cases, it can result in brain damage or death.
4. Accidents and Impaired Judgment: Nitrous oxide abuse can affect coordination and judgment, making activities like driving or operating machinery risky and more prone to accidents.
5. Gastrointestinal Issues: Nitrous oxide abuse can irritate the digestive tract, leading to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
6. Addiction and Dependence: Abusing nitrous oxide can lead to a strong compulsion to use it repeatedly, disrupting daily life and relationships.
7. Asphyxiation: If nitrous oxide is inhaled directly from the canister or in a closed space without proper ventilation, it can reduce oxygen levels, leading to suffocation.
8. Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Chronic abuse of nitrous oxide can interfere with the body’s ability to use vitamin B12, leading to nerve damage, weakness, and anemia.
9. Psychological and Cognitive Effects: Long-term abuse of nitrous oxide can impact mental health, causing memory loss, confusion, mood swings, anxiety, and depression.
10. Legal Consequences: Using nitrous oxide for non-medical purposes is illegal, and those caught abusing it may face fines and criminal charges.

Tips To Help Celebrities Stop Nitrous Oxide Abuse

Celebrities can make a big difference in stopping nitrous oxide abuse. Here’s how they can help:

1. Speak up: Celebrities can talk openly about the dangers of nitrous oxide abuse and why it’s essential to stay away from it. Sharing personal stories can have a strong impact.
2. Support campaigns: They can team up with organizations that fight drug abuse and raise money for awareness campaigns.
3. Educate fans: Celebrities can use social media or interviews to teach their fans about the risks of nitrous oxide abuse and share helpful resources.
4. Be a good role model: By living a healthy, drug-free life, celebrities can inspire others to do the same.
5. Work with experts: Learning from doctors and addiction experts can help them understand the issue better.
6. Advocate for stricter rules: They can use their voice to push for stronger laws against selling and using nitrous oxide for fun.
7. Help recovery: Supporting groups that help people recover from drug abuse can make a big difference.
8. Share resources: Celebrities can tell their fans about hotlines and places to get help for nitrous oxide abuse.
9. Connect with communities: Joining events focused on drug abuse prevention can raise awareness.
10. Work with schools and youth programs: Teaming up with schools and youth programs can spread the message about the dangers of nitrous oxide abuse and promote healthy choices.

With their fame and influence, celebrities can make a positive impact and help stop nitrous oxide abuse.