Laughing gas considered ‘more dangerous than cocaine’ according to neurologist

By Charlie Herbert

March 16, 2023 at 3:42pm

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‘I have a patient every few years because of cocaine, but one every week due to nitrous oxide’

A neurologist says nitrous oxide is “more dangerous than cocaine” – and some kids are taking 150 canisters a day.

The substance – commonly known laughing gas or nos – is sold in single-use silver canisters and is dispensed into balloons to be inhaled to create a temporary feeling of relaxation and euphoria.

It is one of the most commonly-used drugs among 16-24 year olds in England, the government says.

Dr David Nicholl, consultant neurologist and clinical lead at City Hospital in Birmingham, says he is seeing more patients struggling with side effects of ‘nos’ than cocaine abuse.

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