North East’s young adults warned of nitrous oxide risks

The risks and dangers associated with an increasingly prevalent recreational drug have been laid out to raise awareness of the substance.

Nitrous oxide waste in Newcastle

Often inhaled from balloons via small metal canisters, nitrous oxide is now second only to cannabis in the most consumed recreational substances by teenagers according to NHS data.

It is regularly taken alongside other substances, usually alcohol, which can cause several issues including increasing vulnerability - as well as a range of health harms.

Cllr Irim Ali, Newcastle City Council cabinet member for Neighbourhoods and Public Health, said: “Many members of the public will be familiar with the sight of piles of small metal canisters left discarded in parks and other places in our communities.

“What a lot of people don’t know is the risks associated with the contents of those metal canisters. The name ‘laughing gas’ may not sound too dangerous but there are genuine and very serious risks to inhaling this substance, especially when consumed with alcohol or other drugs, as it often is.

“It can cause hallucinations, delusions, nausea, a lack of coordination or unconsciousness. It has links to antisocial behaviour and is illegal to supply.

“I would encourage anyone who has concerns around nitrous oxide use, or any other substance, to contact the support services available on our website.”

There are a range of drug and alcohol services in Newcastle for advice, information and support. Newcastle Treatment and Recovery (NTaR) service support people affected by substances, regardless of age. Details of how to contact NTaR can be found here.

PROPS, which helps families and carers of people with drug and alcohol issues (including Young Carers impacted by a loved one or parents use), has produced a short film to explain the risks around nitrous oxide use, which has become increasingly common in Newcastle and the wider region recently.

The video is available to view here.