Nitrous oxide, often called “laughing gas,” is a common gas used in medical settings, particularly dentistry, and, less safely, for recreational purposes. It is employed to help patients relax and manage anxiety during procedures. Many wonder about its effect on speech and behavior, specifically whether it makes individuals say unusual things.
Effects on Speech and Behavior
Nitrous oxide can induce temporary effects on behavior and speech. Individuals often experience lightheadedness, tingling sensations, and euphoria. Some patients may feel happiness and giggle, which is why it earned the nickname “laughing gas.”
While it can lead to disinhibition (a reduced ability to control impulses), it does not typically cause individuals to say things they would not say under normal circumstances. Speech patterns might be affected, potentially resulting in a slight slurring of words or a feeling that articulating thoughts is more challenging. These changes are subjective and can vary depending on factors like dosage and individual tolerance.
How Nitrous Oxide Works
The effects of nitrous oxide stem from its interaction with the central nervous system. It primarily acts as an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist. By inhibiting these receptors, nitrous oxide temporarily reduces the excitatory actions of glutamate, a key neurotransmitter involved in brain communication. This disruption leads to decreased neural activity, contributing to the sedative, pain-relieving, and dissociative effects.
Nitrous oxide also influences other neurotransmitter systems, enhancing the release of endogenous opioids (natural pain relievers) and increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation. These combined actions result in calming, euphoric, and pain-reducing sensations.
How Long Effects Last
Nitrous oxide has a rapid onset and equally rapid dissipation. The effects typically begin within a few minutes of inhalation. Once the gas flow is stopped, the effects usually subside quickly, with most individuals returning to their normal state within 5 to 10 minutes.
This swift recovery is due to the gas being rapidly cleared from the body through exhalation. Because it does not linger in the system, many people can resume normal activities, such as driving, shortly after its use in a controlled medical setting.
Important Safety Information
While generally considered safe when administered by a trained professional in a controlled medical environment, such as a dental office, recreational use carries significant risks. In medical settings, it is always combined with oxygen to ensure proper oxygenation of the brain and prevent side effects like hypoxia.
Without proper administration and ventilation, especially when used recreationally, there is a risk of oxygen deprivation, which can lead to serious health complications. Chronic recreational use can result in vitamin B12 depletion, potentially causing nerve damage, and other long-term health issues.
While used for sedation, nitrous oxide does not put a person fully to sleep, allowing them to remain conscious and responsive during procedures.