Tag: addiction

What Is Yaba, also known as "Crazy Medicine"?

What Is Yaba?

Yaba is a highly addictive stimulant drug that is growing in popularity with teens and young adults. Yaba originated in Southeastern Asia and is prevalent in Vietnam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand. Its popularity spread to Asian communities in the United States. It has since spread across the country and is quickly becoming a preferred party drug in place of MDMA. Learn more about this powerful stimulant, and yaba addiction can help individuals make informed decisions when they need help. 

What Is Yaba?

Yaba is a stimulant substance that combines caffeine and methamphetamine into brightly colored tablets. The tablets can be candy-flavored and come in various flavors, including orange, vanilla, and grape. Yaba also consists of other substances, some of which are not meant for human consumption, such as:

  • Distilled cold medicine
  • Salt
  • Lithium from batteries
  • Household cleaning products

The tablets are usually swallowed, but some people will crush and snort them to experience the euphoric effects of this drug faster. Others will put the powder on foil and heat it while inhaling the vapors. While less common, some individuals dissolve the powder in water or a saline solution and then inject it. 

Other Names For Yaba

The Thai translation for yaba is “crazy medicine.” Other names this drug is called include:

  • Nazi speed
  • Kamikaze
  • Biker’s coffee
  • Madness drug
  • Shabu

What Does Yaba Look Like?

Tablets are about the size of a pencil eraser and can be stamped with a logo, with “WY” and “R” being the most common. They come in brightly colored tablets in oranges, pinks, greens, and reddish-orange. 

Is Yaba Dangerous?

Yaba is considered a potentially dangerous drug for several reasons:

Risk Factors of YabaDescription
Meth ContentThe meth content per pill can vary based on manufacturing. Higher levels increase the risk of accidental overdose.
Addictive PotentialMeth is extremely addictive. It produces euphoria, increased energy, and heightened alertness, making users want to continue using it.
Heart Attack & Stroke RiskYaba significantly raises blood pressure and heart rate, increasing the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke.
Adverse Psychological EffectsUsers may become violent or paranoid under the influence, which can lead to harming themselves or others.

What Are The Side Effects of Yaba

The side effects of yaba will vary based on the quantity of meth, caffeine, and other ingredients in the tablets. The side effects will also vary based on dosage, frequency of use, and how long someone has been using Yaba. It is equally important to remember that some people may experience pleasurable effects while others can have a “bad trip” and experience adverse side effects. 

  • Paranoia
  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Hallucinations
  • Psychosis
  • Insomnia
  • Elevated body temperature
  • Excessive sweating
  • Hot flashes
  • Tremors
  • Convulsions
  • Euphoria
  • Irritability
  • Increased alertness
  • Increased energy 
  • Confusion
  • Memory loss
  • Increased risk-taking behaviors
  • Aggressiveness
  • Violent behavior
  • Uncharacteristic behaviors 

Health Risks of Yaba Use

Prolonged use of yaba can lead to various health risks, such as:

  • Dental problems (“Meth Mouth”)
  • Weight loss
  • Malnutrition
  • Respiratory issues for those who snort yaba or inhale yaba fumes
  • Inflammation of the heart lining
  • Increased blood pressure and heart rate
  • Damage to blood vessels in the brain
  • Increased risk of STDs, HIV, and other illnesses from needle sharing for those that inject yaba
  • Increased risk of infections and illnesses due to a weakened immune system
  • Changes to the brain’s structure and reward systems

Yaba can also lead to mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Some people also start to experience psychotic states where they can no longer distinguish between reality and hallucinations. Additionally, long-term cognitive issues can develop. 

Yaba Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms from yaba can occur even after using it just once. The intensity and severity of withdrawal symptoms increase the longer the drug is used. Most people will experience a “crash” after using yaba. This is where they can experience fatigue, tiredness, and an increase in appetite. They can also sleep for longer periods until the body recovers.

Long-term use of yaba can cause withdrawal symptoms such as:

  • Sleep disturbances
  • Intense carvings for yaba
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Agitation
  • Difficulties concentrating, focusing, and making decisions
  • Headaches
  • Body aches
  • Muscle pain
  • Tremors
  • Mood swings
  • Panic attacks
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
  • Increased appetite
  • Weight gain

Medically supervised detox can help manage yaba withdrawal symptoms, which usually begin within 24 hours of the last dosage. The symptoms increase in intensity over the next several days, up to a week, until they peak. Once they peak, they will decline in severity and intensity until fully subsided within a few weeks.

Some people can experience PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome), where psychological withdrawal symptoms can linger for several more weeks, months, or sometimes longer. PAWS symptoms include:

  • Cravings for yaba
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Lethargy
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Prolonged cognitive problems
  • Mood swings
  • Memory problems

These symptoms will eventually subside with continued support and the appropriate addiction treatment plan. 

Find Methamphetamine and Yaba Addiction Treatment

At Sanctuary Treatment Center in Los Angeles, we are recognized leaders in the treatment of methamphetamine and Yaba addiction. Our experienced clinical team understands the complex psychological and physical challenges that come with stimulant abuse—and we know how to treat them effectively.

Through evidence-based care, trauma-informed therapy, and an intimate, supportive environment, we help individuals break free from the cycle of addiction and reclaim their lives. Whether you’re in crisis or seeking long-term recovery support, our personalized treatment plans are designed to meet you exactly where you are.

You don’t have to face Yaba addiction alone. Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center today to begin the admissions process and take your first step toward lasting recovery.

Sources

  1. Yaba drug overview and spread – Wikipedia: Ya ba is a drug containing a mixture of methamphetamine and caffeine… bright tablets stamped “R” or “WY.”
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ya_ba Coastal Detox+1Wikipedia+15Wikipedia+15White Sands Treatment+15
  2. Recent medical case study – Open-access article: YABA also known as “Nazi speed”… caffeine and methamphetamine, often adulterated, 8–12 hour effects.
    https://journals.lww.com/aips/fulltext/2023/07040/methamphetamine_abuse_in_the_form_of_yaba_pills.18.aspx
  3. UNODC: “crazy medicine” – United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime: Introduced in East Asia… now common among youth… inexpensive and highly addictive.
    https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/frontpage/yaba-the-crazy-medicine-of-east-asia.html
7-oh blog

The Rising Risks of 7-OH: What You Need to Know

In recent years, 7-Hydroxymitragynine (commonly called 7-OH) has emerged as one of the most concerning substances in the gray-market supplement space. A derivative of kratom, 7-OH is far more potent than its plant-based counterpart, with an opioid-like profile that makes it both addictive and dangerous. While kratom itself has been the subject of controversy, 7-OH takes the risks further—appearing in vape pens, gummies, and even “energy shots” disguised as wellness products.

At Sanctuary Treatment Center, we believe education is the first step toward prevention and recovery. This guide breaks down the forms of 7-OH available today, why they’re so risky, and what treatment options are available for those struggling.

What Is 7-OH?

7-Hydroxymitragynine is one of the minor alkaloids found in the kratom plant (Mitragyna speciosa). Unlike the more common alkaloid mitragynine, which is present in raw kratom leaves, 7-OH is concentrated during extraction or chemical modification processes. It binds strongly to opioid receptors, mimicking the effects of prescription opioids like oxycodone or morphine—without the regulation, safety testing, or medical oversight.

How 7-OH Is Marketed Today

To understand the public health risks, it’s important to recognize how 7-OH is being sold. Below is a table outlining the most common product formats:

FormHow It’s MarketedRisks
7-OH VapesDisposable pens or cartridges, often flavored and packaged like nicotine vapes.Easy to conceal; rapid onset increases risk of overdose and dependency.
7-OH Gummies / ChewablesCandy-like edibles in fruity flavors.Appeals to teens; high doses in small portions make misuse easy.
Sublingual 7-OH Tablets“Wellness” tablets that dissolve under the tongue for fast absorption.Potency is unpredictable; users may stack doses without realizing.
7-OH Shots / DrinksBottled energy-style drinks or concentrated shots sold in convenience stores.Marketed like caffeine but carries opioid-like risk; masks seriousness.
7-OH Powders / CapsulesSold online as “enhanced kratom” or “7-OH extract.”Inconsistent labeling; doses vary widely between batches.

Why 7-OH Is So Dangerous

  • Potency – Studies show 7-OH is up to 13 times more potent than morphine in receptor binding.
  • Lack of Regulation – No FDA oversight, meaning mislabeled or contaminated products are common.
  • Addiction Potential – Users often develop opioid-like dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and cravings.
  • Public Perception – Marketing 7-OH as “natural” or “plant-based” misleads people into believing it is safe.

7-OH State Bans and FDA Warnings

States like Florida are moving to ban 7-OH products, citing increased poison control calls and ER visits. The FDA has issued warnings about misleading marketing practices and has confiscated shipments of enhanced kratom extracts containing 7-OH. Yet, online retailers and gas stations continue to stock them, often targeting young adults seeking alternatives to prescription opioids.

Safer Alternatives for Anxiety & Pain Relief

Many individuals turn to 7-OH because they’re seeking relief from anxiety, depression, or chronic pain. Safer alternatives exist, including:

Getting Help for 7-OH Misuse

At Sanctuary Treatment Center, we treat substance use disorders with evidence-based care and compassion. If you or a loved one is struggling with 7-OH or other synthetic drugs, our team provides:

Conclusion

7-OH may be marketed as a “legal high” or “natural alternative,” but its risks mirror those of highly addictive opioids. Education, prevention, and professional treatment are key to addressing this growing public health concern. Sanctuary Treatment Center is here to provide the guidance and care needed to move beyond dangerous substances toward a healthier, sustainable recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What forms does 7-OH come in?
7‑OH appears in a variety of unregulated, highly potent formats, including vape pens, gummies or chewables, sublingual tablets, drink shots or mixes, and powders or capsules.

2. Why is 7-OH more dangerous than traditional kratom?
Although kratom leaves contain mitragynine and only trace amounts of 7‑OH, concentrated forms of 7‑OH bind much more strongly to opioid receptors—up to several times more potent than morphine—drastically increasing overdose and addiction risk.

3. Are any 7-OH products FDA-approved or safe?
No. The FDA has explicitly warned that products containing enhanced or synthetic 7‑OH—such as gummies, tablets, or drinks—are unapproved, unsafe, and should be avoided.

4. What are the main health risks associated with using 7-OH?
Reported risks include rapid dependence, opioid-like withdrawal symptoms, seizures, respiratory depression, gastrointestinal distress, anxiety, depression, and potential for lethal overdose—especially when consumed via vaping or other rapid-delivery formats.

5. Is 7-OH regulated by law?
At the federal level, the FDA has recommended scheduling 7‑OH as a Schedule I substance. Florida has already banned it statewide and classified it accordingly.

6. What should I do if someone has an adverse reaction to 7-OH?
Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or dial 911 if they are unresponsive. It’s also important to report adverse events to the FDA via their MedWatch system.

Sources

Is LSD Addictive​?

Is LSD Addictive?

Common questions about LSD include how does it work, can it cause long-term harm, and is LSD addictive?

What Is LSD?

Lysergic acid diethylamide, which is commonly referred to as LSD, is a hallucinogenic substance that is derived from a poisonous fungus called ergot

It was first synthesized by Swiss chemist Albert Hoffman in the late 1930s as part of an effort to develop a new drug that could stimulate the circulatory and respiratory system. 

When the substance didn’t show promise as a stimulant, Hoffman turned his attention elsewhere. He didn’t discover its psychedelic properties until 1943 – about five years after initially synthesizing it – when he began to study the drug again and accidentally absorbed a small amount.

How Does LSD Work?

When a person takes LSD, molecules of the drug bind to certain serotonin and dopamine receptors in their brain. What happens after these attachments occur? How, exactly, does LSD cause such powerful effects?

These questions have long befuddled researchers, but developments over the previous decade have expanded their understanding of how LSD works.

Recent studies suggest that LSD’s effects are related to the drug’s ability to promote increased activity in some areas of the brain, suppress activity in other areas, and alter communication among various regions. 

In 2016, the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) published a study that incorporated three advanced neuroimaging techniques to explore how LSD impacts the brain. Results from this research effort included:

  • Visual hallucinations seem to result from increased cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the visual cortex, decreased alpha power in the visual cortex, and “a greatly expanded primary visual cortex (V1) functional connectivity profile.”
  • The sense of ego dissolution that some LSD users experience appears to be related to decreased connectivity between two brain areas, the retrosplenial cortex (RSC) and the parahippocampus.

In 2017, a team from the University of North Carolina (UNC) School of Medicine captured the first crystallographic images of an LSD molecule attached to a serotonin receptor. These images revealed that parts of the receptors fold over the LSD molecules like a lid, essentially locking them in place. 

Though this discovery didn’t yield additional insights into how LSD produces its effects, it did help explain why those effects last as long as they do.

“LSD takes a long time to get onto the receptor, and then once it’s on, it doesn’t come off,” said Bryan L. Roth, MD, PhD, who led the UNC research team. “And the reason is this lid.”

Effects of LSD

The effects that you may feel when you take LSD can be affected by a range of factors, including the quality of the drug, how much you take, and the circumstances in which you take it. 

Generally speaking, though, common effects of LSD include:

  • Elevated mood
  • Enhanced sense of empathy and connection
  • Distorted perception of space and time
  • Enhanced sensitivity to light, sound, and touch
  • Auditory and/or visual hallucinations

Of course, even if you take LSD with the goal of experiencing an enjoyable high, there are no guarantees that the results will be positive.

If you have what’s commonly referred to as a “bad trip,” the psychological impact can include intense anxiety, profound confusion, panic, and paranoia. 

Also, while most people focus on the drug’s impact on thoughts and perceptions, it can also cause physical effects, including:

  • Dilated (expanded) pupils
  • Accelerated heart rate
  • Increase in body temperature
  • Rapid breathing
  • Excessive perspiration
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting

How Long Do LSD Effects Last?

As noted previously in this post, the way LSD locks onto neural receptors in the brain means that people who take the drug are likely to experience effects for an extended period.

When you ingest LSD, it can take 30 minutes to two hours before you begin to feel any effects. Once these effects start to become apparent, they may last for up to 12 hours. 

The 12-hour timeline refers to the most intense effects, such as hallucinations, altered perception, and disorientation. Some people also report lingering aftereffects such as improved mood, which continued for several days after they took LSD.

Health Risks Associated With Frequent LSD Use

Using LSD even once can put you at risk of both physical and psychological distress. If you use the drug frequently, you may also be in danger of health risks such as:

  • Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD) – Previously known as having flashbacks, this condition can cause you to re-experience a variety of LSD’s effects long after you’ve stopped using the drug.
  • Serotonin syndrome – This serious condition is caused by having an overabundance of serotonin in your system. Symptoms can range from nervousness and nausea to muscle spasms and delirium. Serotonin syndrome is a treatable condition, but if a person doesn’t get the care they need, the results could include breathing problems, kidney failure, seizure and even death. 
  • Addiction – Is LSD addictive? Yes, it can be.  Though LSD addiction is quite rare, it is possible to become dependent on this drug. 

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of LSD Addiction?

The clinical term for LSD addiction is other hallucinogen use disorder. The “other” in this term refers to hallucinogenic substances that aren’t phencyclidine (PHP), which has a separate entry in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). 

Symptoms of LSD addiction can include:

  • Using LSD in larger amounts or for a longer period of time than intended
  • Having a persistent desire to stop using LSD, but being unable to quit
  • Spending considerable amounts of time acquiring and using LSD
  • Experiencing intense urges to use LSD
  • Failing to meet your responsibilities at home, in school, or at work as a result of your LSD use
  • Continuing to use LSD even after incurring some type of harm, such as having health problems or losing your job. This also includes consequences like being arrested due to your prior use.
  • Developing tolerance, which means that you need to use larger or more potent doses to achieve the desired effects
  • Using LSD in circumstances that are clearly hazardous, such as while driving
  • Reducing or ending your participation in important activities as a result of your LSD use

What Causes LSD Addiction?

A common follow-up to the question, “Is LSD addictive?” is, “What causes LSD addiction?”

As with all other types of chemical dependence, there is no single reason why people become addicted to LSD. Instead, experts have identified a variety of risk factors, including:

  • Prior use of MDMA (ecstasy) or other hallucinogens
  • Being addicted to alcohol, cannabis, or nicotine
  • Developing major depressive disorder or antisocial personality disorder
  • Having certain genetic variations

Regardless of how or why you become addicted to LSD, it is important to remember that this is a treatable condition. With proper care and a concerted effort on your part, you can overcome the compulsion to use LSD, and begin to build a healthier life for yourself in recovery.

FAQ About LSD Abuse

Can LSD cause long-term harm?
Yes. While not all users experience ongoing issues, LSD can lead to persistent problems such as hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD), chronic anxiety, and other mood disturbances. These effects can last weeks, months, or even become permanent in some cases.

How long do LSD effects last?
The most intense effects can last up to 12 hours, though aftereffects may continue for days. These lingering effects can include mood changes, disrupted sleep, and unusual sensory perceptions.

Can LSD use be treated?
Yes. With professional treatment that may include detox, counseling, and relapse prevention planning, individuals can stop using LSD and address any co-occurring mental health concerns.

Begin Treatment for LSD Addiction at Sanctuary Treatment Center

Sanctuary Treatment Center offers a full continuum of customized services for adults who have become addicted to LSD and other substances.

Treatment options at our rehab center in Los Angeles, CA, include detoxification (detox), residential care, and multiple outpatient programs. Our team of experienced treatment professionals will work with you to understand the full scope of your needs. They will then select the programs and services that will best prepare you for successful, long-term recovery. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, please visit our Contact page or call us today.

Sources

  1. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). (2016). LSD modulates the brain’s functional connectivity. Retrieved from https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1518377113
  2. University of North Carolina School of Medicine. (2017). Crystal structure of LSD bound to a serotonin receptor. Retrieved from https://www.med.unc.edu/pharm/this-is-lsd-attached-to-a-brain-cell-serotonin-receptor/

Published: 8/8/2025

A woman cries while wondering if Tizanidine is addictive.

Is Tizanidine Addictive?

Tizanidine can be a safe and effective medication when it is used as directed. But before you start to take it, you should ask your doctor about any potential drawbacks, such as: What side effects does it cause? Is tizanidine addictive? Will you go through withdrawal if you stop using it?

What is Tizanidine?

Tizanidine is a prescription medication that can alleviate muscle spasms, muscle tightness, and severe muscle cramping. In addition to being sold as a generic, it is also marketed under the brand names Zanaflex and Ontralfy.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved tizanidine in 1996 to treat patients who have been experiencing muscle spasticity as a result of:

  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) 
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • Stroke

Doctors in the U.S. also prescribe tizanidine on an off-label basis to treat a variety of other concerns, including:

  • Chronic migraines
  • Some types of chronic pain
  • Regional musculoskeletal pain syndromes
  • Treatment-resistant insomnia in patients with quadriplegia 

Tizanidine is typically taken orally in capsule, tablet, or liquid form.

What Does Tizanidine Do?

Tizanidine is classified as an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. This means that it interacts with receptors in the central nervous system (CNS) that release certain excitatory neurotransmitters. 

These types of neurotransmitters increase the speed with which messages are delivered throughout the CNS. By preventing their release, tizanidine inhibits the functioning of neurons that trigger muscle movements. 

This neuronal inhibition can cause an easing of spasms, tightness, and cramping.

Can Tizanidine Get You High?

In addition to its antispastic effects, tizanidine can also cause relaxation and sedation. 

For someone who has been experiencing intense pain due to muscle spasms, these effects may lead to an easing of anxiety and an overall improvement in mood. But tizanidine does not typically cause the degree of euphoric disorientation that is commonly associated with the recreational use of opioids, benzodiazepines, and certain other prescription medications. 

Even when a person takes tizanidine as directed by their physician, they can experience a range of adverse effects, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Panic
  • Depression
  • Hallucinations
  • Delusions
  • Mood swings

This doesn’t mean that no one abuses tizanidine in an attempt to get high. However, given the unpredictability of the drug’s mental health effects, as well as the likelihood of unpleasant results when people misuse it, tizanidine is not a particularly popular recreational drug.

Is Tizanidine Addictive?

Though tizanidine is available only by prescription in the U.S., it is not classified as a controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). 

This signifies that, in the opinion of the U.S. government, tizanidine use is unlikely to lead to abuse and addiction. But even a minuscule risk is not the same as no risk at all.  

So, is tizanidine addictive? It can be.

Compared to the risk posed by opioids and benzodiazepines, tizanidine addiction is rare. Yet it is possible, and people do become dependent on this medication.

Tizanidine Addiction Symptoms

The signs that someone has become trapped by tizanidine’s addictive properties can include:

  • Having strong cravings for the drug
  • Taking tizanidine in a greater amount or for a longer period than directed
  • Exaggerating or lying about physical symptoms in order to get additional prescriptions
  • Acquiring tizanidine illicitly, such as by borrowing or stealing it from someone else or purchasing it from unlicensed online pharmacies
  • Using tizanidine is circumstances that are particularly dangerous, such as by combining it with alcohol and other mind-altering substances
  • Continuing to use tizanidine even after experiencing some type of physical, psychological, or social harm as a result of prior use
  • Developing withdrawal symptoms when they abruptly reduce or end their tizanidine use
  • Wanting to stop using tizanidine, but being unable to quit 

Side Effects of Tizanidine Dependence

In addition to causing the psychological side effects listed earlier in this post, tizanidine use has also been linked with several adverse physical effects, including:

  • Abnormal heart rate
  • Chest pain
  • Respiratory problems
  • Liver damage
  • Blurred vision
  • Discomfort during urination
  • Fever or chills
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Exhaustion 
  • Muscle weakness
  • Unintentional weight gain

When a person becomes dependent on tizanidine, the disruptive impact of their continued compulsive use of the drug can include:

  • Declining performance in school or at work
  • Conflicts with friends, family members, and colleagues
  • Financial problems
  • Legal problems
  • Onset or worsening of mental health concerns

It is also possible to overdose on tizanidine, which can cause symptoms such as:

  • Disorientation
  • Chest pain
  • Slow, shallow, or strained breathing
  • Slowed other otherwise irregular heart rate
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Bluish coloration near lips and fingertips

Anyone who exhibits these types of symptoms after taking tizanidine needs immediate medical attention. If you are with someone who overdoses, call 911 immediately and remain with them until help arrives.

What Happens If I Suddenly Stop Taking Tizanidine?

When you take tizanidine for an extended period, either illicitly or by prescription, your body will begin to adapt to the presence of this drug. Abruptly ending your use of the drug can trigger a variety of withdrawal symptoms as your body attempts to reestablish equilibrium.

Typical signs of tizanidine withdrawal include:

  • Hypertension (elevated blood pressure)
  • Tachycardia (heart rate above 100 beats per minute)
  • Hypertonicity (excessive muscle contractions)
  • Anxiety

It is never advisable to alter or end your use of tizanidine or other prescription medications without first consulting with your doctor. If they agree with your decision to stop using tizanidine, they can set up a schedule to gradually reduce your use over time. 

Tapering in this manner gives your body time to readjust, which minimizes the likelihood of withdrawal symptoms and other problematic effects.

Treatment for Tizanidine Abuse

To be most effective, treatment for tizanidine abuse and addiction should be customized to reflect the full scope of each patient’s unique needs and goals. This includes addressing any medical and mental health concerns as well as their compulsive tizanidine use.

Depending on a range of personal factors, an optimal course of care may include elements such as:

  • Prescription medication
  • Individual, group, and family therapy
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
  • Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
  • EMDR and other trauma-focused therapies
  • Experiential and holistic therapies
  • Psychoeducational sessions

Untreated addictions can have a devastating impact on virtually every part of a person’s life. But when someone gets the right type of treatment from a reputable provider, they can end their drug use and begin to build a much healthier life in recovery.

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center for Help

Sanctuary Treatment Center offers comprehensive, personalized treatment for adults who have become addicted to tizanidine and other drugs. 

In addition, programming options at our addiction treatment center in Los Angeles, California, include detoxification (detox), inpatient rehab, outpatient care, and aftercare planning services. Moreover, our team of experienced professionals will work closely with you to identify the therapies and interventions that best align with your specific needs, goals, and expectations.

To learn more or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact page or call us today.

Published: 6/13/2025

The Dangers of Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) Abuse

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) Abuse

Nitrous oxide is a sedative used by health professionals and the food service industry. When used in medical settings, it blocks pain receptors in the central nervous system and causes patients to relax. In the food service industry, it is used to rapidly pickle vegetables, for craft cocktails, in whipped cream, and to infuse oils with flavors.  However, due to its effects, some people misuse this colorless, non-flammable gas. Regular abuse of nitrous oxide can lead to dependence and addiction. 

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a fast-acting gas with a sweet smell and taste. It is called laughing gas because of some of its effects. While it is a sedative and central nervous system depressant, it is also considered a dissociative drug. Dissociative drugs can make people feel detached or separated from their bodies or experience hallucinations. 

It is one of the most widely used sedatives in the healthcare industry due to its fast-acting effects, which last only a short time. Dentists and doctors use it to help sedate people for minor procedures that require only a short time to complete. 

Why Do People Abuse Nitrous Oxide?

People abuse nitrous oxide due to the effects they experience when inhaling the gas. These effects include:

  • Euphoria
  • Calmness
  • Relaxation
  • Happy
  • Giggly
  • Light-headed
  • Heaviness
  • Dizziness
  • Tingling sensations in the arms and legs

Is Nitrous Oxide Addictive?

Nitrous oxide is a highly addictive substance, and regular use will lead to addiction. The brain remembers the pleasurable effects experienced while under the effects of laughing gas. So, it develops a craving for the substance and encourages future use. If someone continues to give in to their cravings and continues to use nitrous oxide, they will eventually become dependent on it. 

As they do, they will also experience tolerance to the substance, where they will have to use higher amounts of the gas to achieve the desired effects. Eventually, they may become addicted to the gas and struggle to function without its effects.

Side Effects of Inhaling Nitrous Oxide

Usually, people inhale nitrous oxide from a balloon that is filled with the gas from a capsule or large cylinders. Inhaling the gas directly from a capsule or large cylinder can cause serious damage to the lungs. Other potential short-term side effects people can experience include:

  • Headaches
  • Agitation
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Low blood pressure
  • Fainting
  • Nere damage
  • Heart attack
  • Hypoxia

Long-term nitrous oxide abuse can cause these side effects:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Memory loss/blackouts
  • Numbness
  • Weakened immune system
  • Muscle spasms
  • Psychosis
  • Hallucinations
  • Tinnitus

How Long Does Laughing Gas Last?

The effects of laughing gas usually begin to be felt within two to three minutes of inhaling it. When used in a medical setting, the effects last for however long the person is administered the gas. Once a person stops inhaling the gas, the body clears nitrous oxide within five to ten minutes, restoring a normal feeling. All effects typically wear off in about half an hour. 

Recreational use of nitrous oxide affects the duration of its effects based on the dosage. A small dose may last between five and ten minutes. However, inhaling multiple doses or a large dosage could result in effects lasting between 30 and 45 minutes. 

What Are the Risks of Using Nitrous Oxide Recreationally?

Using nitrous oxide recreationally and regularly does have its risks. Frequent or excessive use of the gas can cause low oxygen levels, which can cause dizziness initially. As oxygen levels drop lower, it can cause unconsciousness and, in extreme cases, respiratory failure and death. 

Another risk associated with the regular use of laughing gas is nerve damage. The substance depletes vitamin B12, which is responsible for red blood cell production, nervous system functions, and immune system support. As the vitamin depletes, it causes tingling sensations in the arms and legs. Some might view this as pleasurable, but it can lead to long-term neurological damage. 

There are also psychological risks of abusing nitrous oxide. The gas causes changes in the brain and central nervous system, causing the body to become reliant on it. When someone attempts to cut down or stop using the gas, the body goes into withdrawal as it attempts to function without the gas. 

Additionally, those addicted to nitrous oxide can engage in risky behaviors and impaired decision-making. Some people will inhale any substance from non-medical containers, believing it is nitrous oxide. Doing so not only increases the risk of lung damage but also exposure to other substances, chemicals, and contaminants, which could cause serious health problems, accidental overdose, or even death. For example, Someone could add a small amount of fentanyl to a balloon before filling it with nitrous oxide.

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center for Help With Addiction

Are you struggling with nitrous oxide addiction and want help to quit safely? Reaching out for help is the start of your recovery journey. At Sanctuary Treatment Center, our caring and compassionate team is here to support and guide you as you overcome your substance addiction. We provide comprehensive, evidence-based and holistic therapeutic modalities tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to start your path to a brighter, nitrous oxide-free future.

Published: 3/27/2025

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