What are the dangers of using nitrous oxide - the laughing gas drug?

About this episode

Nitrous oxide, which is also known as laughing gas, is sold in metal canisters and is one of the most commonly used drugs by teenagers and young people. However, heavy use can lead to a host of problems. Prof Alastair Noyce, a consultant neurologist at Queen Mary University of London, told BBC News: "These are young people we are seeing - teenagers and people in their 20s. What's striking now is the severity. We've seen that increase over the last 12 months or so." Nitrous oxide is a gas that can be used for medical purposes, as an anaesthetic, and in the food industry. Why do people use Nitrous oxide? What are the dangers? What is being done about this? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: What are five foods that make us happy? Why does smiling increase life expectancy? Is moaning and grumbling good for mental health? A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue. In partnership with upday UK. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices