Is Nitrous Oxide Legal in Canada?
Yes, nitrous oxide is legal in Canada for medical use subject to regulation. It is also legal for use in whipped cream dispensers and certain other food products. It is not legal for recreational use.
Nitrous oxide is regulated by the Food and Drugs Act. When sold for inhalation, it is classified as a “drug” under s. 2 of the Act and requires an official drug identification number to be sold legally.
What is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide – also known as laughing gas, whippets, NOS, or nang – is an odourless, colourless gas that has dissociative, anaesthetic, and psychedelic properties.
It’s commonly administered by health care professionals for sedation and pain relief in medical and dental procedures.
Recreationally, nitrous oxide can be inhaled to produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. It is sometimes seen at parties, clubs, concerts, and/or festivals.
The gas may sold in metal canisters and then inhaled through balloons. Effects are induced within seconds and typically last for a few minutes.
Medical or Therapeutic Use?
A systematic review published in December 2025 found that nitrous oxide showed promise as a fast-acting antidepressant in early-phase clinical trials.
However, there are risks associated with recreational use. Common side effects from small doses include dizziness, light-headedness, disorientation, and headaches.
Heavy or sustained use poses greater dangers. One study found that nitrous oxide may cause harms such as neurological damage, vitamin B12 deficiency, and substance-induced psychosis.
In November 2025, Health Canada issued a public advisory warning consumers not to inhale nitrous oxide recreationally as it poses serious health risks and can cause death.
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