In a disturbing new trend, children are inhaling noxious oxide in an attempt to get a high. Canisters of the gas are legally available in many supermarkets and newsagents, and there are no laws against children purchasing it unless they are likely to be using it in an attempt to get a high. Shops are reporting increased sales of the gas, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.

Nitrous oxide was once used an anaesthetic and is now used in whipped cream dispensers. Inhaling the gas can restrict oxygen from entering the body, leading to side effects ranging from headaches to death.

Dr Andrew Lavender of the South Australian branch of the Australian Medical Association expressed concern for the practice, stating that people had suffered brain damage and had died as a result of inhaling nitrous oxide. Dr Lavender commented that it is “of concern that any substance that has potential for abuse would be readily available and seemingly in circumstances that would be targeting a market of young people on their night out.”

From the Adelaide Now.

Writer Tristan Boyd, Editor Dr Ramesh Manocha.