Nangs are popular with young people. But are they aware of the serious harms of nitrous oxide?

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas or nangs, is a cheap and widely available substance that is often used recreationally. Despite its popularity among young people, it is often overlooked in public health programs and education settings, including in Australian schools.

How Common is it?

We still don’t have much data about who uses nitrous oxide and how often. However, researchers believe it is becoming more common globally, especially among young people. In 2022, nitrous oxide was the second-most used controlled substance among 16-24 year olds in the UK after cannabis.

What are the Health Risks?

Inhaling nitrous oxide has short-term health risks, including passing out (from lack of oxygen) and seizures. Long-term health problems may include vitamin B12 loss, urinary incontinence, strokes, memory loss, and mental health conditions such as depression and psychosis.

Our Research

We conducted a 2025 Australian study, interviewing seven young people (aged 18-25) who had used nitrous oxide at least ten times. They reported being unaware of or unconcerned about the drug’s potential risks, despite experiencing psychological and physical problems.

The Role of Social Media

Videos of young people using nitrous oxide can easily be found on social media, suggesting its popularity. Social media could be a good place to reach young people with information about the drug and harm reduction.

Conclusion

Nitrous oxide is a potentially dangerous drug that is widely available and often used recreationally. Despite its popularity, it is often overlooked in public health programs and education settings. Our research highlights the need for more information and harm reduction strategies to be implemented to address the risks associated with nitrous oxide use.

FAQs

Q: What is nitrous oxide used for?
A: Nitrous oxide is used for sedation and pain relief in dentistry and childbirth, and is also used recreationally.

Q: How common is nitrous oxide use?
A: While we don’t have much data, researchers believe it is becoming more common globally, especially among young people.

Q: What are the health risks of nitrous oxide?
A: Inhaling nitrous oxide has short-term health risks, including passing out and seizures. Long-term health problems may include vitamin B12 loss, urinary incontinence, strokes, memory loss, and mental health conditions.

Q: Can social media be used to reach young people with information about the drug and harm reduction?
A: Yes, videos of young people using nitrous oxide can easily be found on social media, suggesting its popularity. Social media could be a good place to reach young people with information about the drug and harm reduction.