Tag: Recreational drugs

Case studies reveal that young individuals are increasingly presenting with neurological symptoms linked to nitrous oxide (Nangs) abuse, which can cause a serious and functional vitamin B12 deficiency. Understanding this dangerous link is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.

In the 1960s and 1970s, barbiturates like secobarbital, known by the street name 'reds,' were widely abused, leading to a significant number of overdoses. These central nervous system depressants carry high risks of abuse, addiction, and potentially fatal health effects, which is why their use has been largely replaced by safer alternatives today. Understanding the profound health effects of reds is crucial for grasping the dangers associated with these powerful sedatives.

Case reports and medical studies have repeatedly shown a link between nitrous oxide exposure and severe neurological complications arising from vitamin B12 deficiency. This raises a common and critical question: **Does nitric oxide deplete B12?** The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no, hinging on the distinction between two different gases and their biological effects.