Tag

Nitrous Oxide

All articles tagged with #nitrous oxide

health5 months ago

Surge in Nitrous Oxide-Related Deaths in America

Deaths caused by recreational nitrous oxide use in the U.S. have surged by approximately 500% from 2010 to 2023, raising significant public health concerns. The drug, often used in medical settings and as whipped cream propellant, is increasingly misused for euphoric effects, leading to serious health risks including oxygen deprivation and neurological damage. Despite the overall low death toll, the rising trend and social media influence highlight the need for enhanced education and surveillance efforts.

health7 months ago

9-Year-Old Dies After Routine Dental Visit Triggers Fatal Blood Disorder

A 9-year-old girl died after a routine dental procedure involving nitrous oxide, which triggered a rare blood condition called methemoglobinemia, preventing her blood from carrying oxygen effectively. The incident was deemed an accident with no evidence of misconduct, though it highlights the risks associated with nitrous oxide use in susceptible individuals.

health7 months ago

Rise in Nitrous Oxide Abuse Sparks U.S. Public Health Concerns

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, has become a popular but dangerous recreational drug in the US, with rising misuse fueled by online sales, colorful packaging, and social media trends, leading to serious health risks and fatalities. Despite its legal status for culinary use, increased accessibility and marketing have contributed to a surge in addiction and related accidents, prompting legal actions and public health warnings.

science7 months ago

Innovative Gas and Ultrasound Techniques Enhance Blood-Brain Barrier for Safer Brain Drug Delivery

Researchers at UT Southwestern discovered that nitrous oxide can safely enhance the delivery of gene therapy to the brain by making the blood-brain barrier more permeable with focused ultrasound, using significantly lower microbubble concentrations and ultrasound pressures, which reduces tissue damage risk and improves gene delivery efficiency in mouse models, paving the way for potential clinical trials for neurological diseases.

health2 years ago

The Hidden Dangers of Nitrous Oxide: Life-Changing Spinal Cord Injuries in Young People

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas or NOS, is causing life-changing spinal cord injuries in young people, according to a neurologist. The popularity of nitrous oxide among 16 to 24-year-olds, particularly in the Asian community, has surged due to social media exposure. Neurologists are seeing an increase in cases where patients experience symptoms such as tingling, numbness, difficulty walking, unsteadiness, and loss of coordination. Nitrous oxide depletes vitamin B12, which is crucial for nerve function, leading to the loss of insulation around nerves. The use of larger cylinders with higher doses has become more prevalent, and many users are unaware of the proper dosage. The neurologist emphasizes the need for education and awareness to prevent these avoidable injuries.

health2 years ago

The Hidden Dangers of a Popular Recreational Activity

Chronic use of nitrous oxide, commonly known as "laughing gas," can lead to serious neurological issues caused by a functional vitamin B12 deficiency. Symptoms include spinal cord damage, nerve damage, and behavioral abnormalities. Medical professionals are advised to inquire about nitrous oxide use in patients presenting symptoms suggestive of vitamin B12 deficiency.

legalcriminal-justice2 years ago

Whip-It! Sellers Ordered to Pay $745 Million for Fatal Incident

A St. Louis jury has ordered the distributor and local seller of Whip-It! nitrous oxide cartridges to pay $745 million in a wrongful death lawsuit. The lawsuit was brought by the parents of Marissa Politte, who was killed by a driver under the influence of Whip-It! nitrous oxide. The evidence presented at trial showed that Whip-It! chargers are often used as inhalants, leading to addiction and brain damage. The jury found that the distributor and head shop conspired to sell the product to the driver. The judgment includes $20 million in compensatory damages and $725 million in punitive damages. The defendants have not commented on the verdict.

legalcivil-lawsuit2 years ago

"Record-Breaking Verdict: Family of Ballwin Woman Awarded $745 Million in Whip-It! Abuse Crash Case"

A St. Louis County jury has awarded a $745 million verdict to the parents of a woman who was killed by a driver under the influence of Whip-It! nitrous oxide. The trial focused on whether the company distributing Whip-It! conspired with a local smoke shop to sell the product to customers who intended to illegally inhale it. The jury found the distributing company 70% liable, the smoke shop 20% liable, and the driver 10% liable. The verdict sends a message to the industry and may lead to reforms. The defendants have the right to appeal.

entertainment2 years ago

Drake Bell's Controversial Balloon Inhalation Incident

Troubling photos show former child star Drake Bell inhaling from a balloon that appears to be filled with nitrous oxide, a dangerous but popular method of getting high. This comes amid a tumultuous time for Bell, who recently revealed he was contemplating suicide after being labeled a "pedophile" due to his child endangerment conviction in 2021. He is also going through a divorce and a child custody battle. This is not the first time Bell has been pictured inhaling nitrous oxide, and his family has expressed concern for his safety and well-being.

neuroscience2 years ago

Unveiling the Neurobiological Effects of Psychedelics.

A study led by the University of Michigan Medical School examines the neurobiology of psychedelic experiences by comparing the brain activity of healthy people under the influence of nitrous oxide to data collected from participants given ketamine and LSD. The team found that the patterns of activity associated with the different substances overlapped, indicating common underlying biology. The study could inform future research on the therapeutic use of psychedelics.

health2 years ago

Laughing Gas Renders Man Paralyzed by Inactivating Vitamin B12

A man who used nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, for years has been left temporarily paralyzed and unable to walk his dogs due to nerve damage caused by the drug inactivating vitamin B12 in his body. Experts are increasingly concerned about the potential harms of nitrous oxide, particularly with the rise of super-size canisters. While it's legal to possess nitrous oxide in most countries, some have criminalized supplying it for recreational purposes. Users who develop symptoms like numbness or incontinence should stop taking it and seek help immediately.