Experts warn against the ever-growing use of laughing gas

European Drug monitoring agency EMCDDA has released a new study highlighting an increase in its use. The study shows a rise in laughing gas availability and its perception as “a relatively safe drug,” leading to more people being inclined to use it.

“A profitable and expanding supply chain has developed, with specialised internet stores directly promoting the gas for its recreational use or offering it under the guise of its use to make whipped cream,” the study explains.

Figures show that there has been a “small but significant rise” in poisonings and other health problems since 2017.

EMCDDA director Alexis Goosdeel said on Monday, according to Yahoo: “There is a general perception among users that inhalation of nitrous oxide is safe.

“Yet we see that more frequent or heavier use of the gas increases the risk of serious harm.”

As reported by Healthline, the side effects from frequent use of the chemical “can be dangerous and life-threatening.”

There’s no denying the ease of accessibility when it comes to ‘ballons’. The streets of London and other major cities are littered with spent canisters within close proximity of clubs each weekend. 

With several deaths and major health incidents reported in recent years coming from the use of Nitrous Oxide, it’s clear that there needs to be an air of caution applied by recreational users and a wider education for all on the effects of prolonged use.