Doctors warn ‘laughing gas’ abuse could cause spinal damage
nme.comFind a PDF version of the guidelines here.“We developed these practical guidelines to try to standardise care for patients who have come from recreational nitrous oxide use,” said Alastair Noyce, a senior author of the report and Neurology professor at London’s Queen Mary university.“If implemented correctly, they will ensure that patients get the treatment they need.
We hope they will also alleviate pressure on hospitals by improving efficiency in the emergency department and reducing unnecessary admissions.”Back in 2021, then-Home Secretary Priti Patel threatened to “take tough action” against young people found possessing laughing gas.“[Nitrous oxide] can cause serious long-term effects such as vitamin B12 deficiency and anaemia,” she said, later acknowledging the “devastating impact” it can wreak on communities. “We are determined to do all we can to address this issue and protect the futures of our children and young people.”Further, in 2015 the UK government announced that it would outlaw “any substance intended for human consumption that is capable of producing a psychoactive effect”.
Read more on nme.com