Nitrous Oxide

Other names include:

“Balloons” “Laughing Gas” “Nos” “Whippets” “Hippy Crack” “Smart Whip”

About the drug

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas or NOS, is a colourless gas used for sedation and pain relief, is also used by people to feel intoxicated or high.

It is commonly used by dentists and medical professionals to sedate patients undergoing minor medical procedures and is also used within the catering industry for whipped cream dispensers.

It can come in various sizes from small metal canisters known as whippets to larger cylinders (even as large as a fire extinguisher)

Because of its legitimate use it is widely and easily available online.

    • £20 - Box of 50 canisters

    • £30 -£50 - 1 Cylinder (depending on size)

    • £5 - x10 Crackers

  • Nitrous oxide is inhaled normally via a balloon

    Small canisters known as whippets have to be fitted into a smaller gadget called a cracker (there is a sharp point on the inside to pierce the canister when tightened). A balloon is fitted and when the cracker is twisted the balloon fills with gas. The balloon can then be put against the lips and the gas inhaled.

    A similar method is used for the larger cylinders but without the need of the cracker. The large cylinders can fill up to 30-50 balloons depending on size and amount of gas used.

    Note: This is pressurised gas that will become extremely cold when released.

  • Once inhaled, it is quickly absorbed through the lungs into the bloodstream, passing to the brain.

    An intoxication feeling is produced that last only around 30-60 seconds. This can feel like euphoria or at times less welcome visual or auditory (sound) hallucinations including:

    • euphoria

    • numbness of the body

    • sedation

    • giddiness

    • uncontrolled laughter

    • uncoordinated movements

    • blurred vision

    • confusion

    • dizziness and/or light-headedness

    Can increase the affects of other drugs that are already in their system.

  • Serious damage could be done to the lungs if the gas was inhaled directly from canister or cylinders, it must always be inhaled from a balloon. Gas at pressure is dangerous, so care must be taken when filling balloons.

    Canisters & Cylinders need to be disposed of carefully & should never be thrown into fires as they may explode.

    • Affects coordination so dangerous for someone driving or operating machinery

    • Can affect balance so risk of falling and getting hurt

  • Equipment: small metal canisters, larger cylinders, balloons or cracker (metal item shown above)

    • Freeze burns to hands /mouth / inside thighs

    • Behaviour changes in mood, memory loss

    • Complaining of pins and needles or nerve pain in limbs

    • Severe headaches

    • Hallucinating

    This gas can be purchased online so look out for deliveries coming to your home.

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