Reinforcing effects of extended inhalation of nitrous oxide in humans.
Drug and alcohol dependence February 1, 1993 C S Dohrn, J L Lichtor, D W Coalson et al.
In healthy volunteers, inhaling 30% nitrous oxide was chosen no more often than oxygen (41.6% choice rate), showing it was not more reinforcing. Inhaling 40% nitrous oxide was chosen significantly less often than oxygen (22% choice rate), indicating it was less reinforcing. Nitrous oxide produced robust subjective effects such as increased ratings of 'high,' 'tingling,' and 'dizzy.' Subjects who chose nitrous oxide reported pleasant effects and liked it, while those who chose placebo reported unpleasant effects and disliked it. Both concentrations impaired psychomotor performance in all subjects. The lack of reinforcing effects is discussed in light of nitrous oxide's known abuse potential.