r/Drugs AMA series: Nitrous oxide (AKA "N2O," "laughing gas")

Erowid link

Wikipedia link

Made widespread by doctors, dentists and other medical professionals, and used recreationally by everyone from average joes to famous author-chefs in upscale, European restaurants, the subject of this AMA will be nitrous oxide.

First synthesis: 1772 by Joseph Priestley.

Intended use: As can be seen in the link, there are a wide range of current applications for N2O, the mains ones being as an aerosol spray propellant, anesthetic and analgesic. Of course, N2O is also used as a recreational drug.

Current research into medical applications: None.

Legality: Legal in most, if not all, countries with few exceptions.

Dependence vs. Active Dose/Lethal Dose

Why nitrous might be the most damaging drug you use.