TY  - JOUR
AU  - Meißner, Julius Nicolai
AU  - Neuneier, Janina
AU  - Bartzokis, Iason
AU  - Rehm, Mathias
AU  - Al-Hayali, Ahmad
AU  - Müller, Marcus
AU  - Paus, Sebastian
AU  - Limmroth, Volker
AU  - Fink, Gereon R.
AU  - Petzold, Gabor C.
AU  - Nitsch, Louisa
TI  - Increase of nitrous oxide-induced neurological disorders – a German multicenter experience
JO  - Neurological research and practice
VL  - 7
IS  - 1
SN  - 2524-3489
CY  - [London]
PB  - BioMed Central
M1  - FZJ-2025-02235
SP  - 3
PY  - 2025
N1  - FundingThis research received no specific grant from any funding agency in thepublic, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.Open Access funding enabled and organized by Projekt DEAL.
AB  - BackgroundNitrous oxide (N₂O), commonly known as laughing gas, is widely recognized for its anesthetic and analgesic effects, and is frequently used in medical contexts. However, its misuse can lead to significant neurological complications, which are often under-recognized in clinical practice. Recent data on such cases in Germany are rare. We here report the spectrum of neurological complications associated with the recreational use of N₂O, as encountered in German neurology centers.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed of 23 cases presenting with neurological symptoms following N₂O abuse between July 2020 and August 2024 across five neurology departments in Germany. Data were collected on patient demographics, clinical manifestations, diagnostic findings, and treatment approaches.ResultsOver the last four years the number of cases increased. Clinical presentations primarily included neuropathy, found in all patients, along with myelopathy. The most common symptoms were sensory loss, ataxia, and motor deficits.ConclusionOur data suggest that N₂O abuse is on the rise in Germany. Further initiatives are warranted to raise awareness among users, healthcare and professionals.
LB  - PUB:(DE-HGF)16
C6  - 39815374
UR  - <Go to ISI:>//WOS:001398048900001
DO  - DOI:10.1186/s42466-024-00361-0
UR  - https://juser.fz-juelich.de/record/1041407
ER  -