Increasing harms from nitrous oxide use have raised concerns, but limited evidence exists to inform harm reduction.
Nitrous oxide sourcing, use and harms: Insights from Australians who use ecstasy/MDMA and other illicit stimulants
September 2025
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J. Grigg, S. Lenton, A. Peacock, et al., “Nitrous Oxide Sourcing, Use and Harms: Insights From Australians Who Use Ecstasy/MDMA and Other Illicit Stimulants,” Drug and Alcohol Review (2025):
1-14, https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.70032
Increasing harms associated with nitrous oxide use have raised concerns, but limited evidence exists to inform harm reduction. This study aimed to identify how nitrous oxide is sourced and used, awareness of health risks, engagement in harm reduction and experience of neurological symptoms.
It found that the most commonly reported source of nitrous oxide in the past 6 months was convenience stores followed by 24/7 delivery services, with sourcing from these retailers associated with higher frequency and higher quantity use.
While most participants demonstrated awareness of a neurological risk associated with nitrous oxide use, such as brain damage (63%) or nerve damage (20%), only one-fifth identified a risk of Vitamin B12 depletion, the cause of most adverse neurological effects.
The findings highlight the need for close surveillance of usage and market trends, along with balanced regulation and targeted education for retailers, clinicians and consumers.
Click here to read the full paper.
