Laughing gas has become an increasing problem in Dalston’s clubs for waves of young people.
The drug, known chemically as nitrous oxide, has resulted in anti-social behaviour. Discarded canisters on the street on Friday and Saturday nights have caused a major headache for residents and police.
It’s a legal high, with effects described by a user as “like chain-smoking 20 cigarettes without the nicotine high.” It is seen as harmless fun by many and is being used to circumvent drug legislation. But the side effects such as accidental asphyxiation and lingering migraines should not be underestimated.
People who have taken the drug reveal its disturbing impacts. Francesca Pelle*, 22, a City University student, said: “My heart started to palpitate and I felt very sick. Some people have said they have experienced ‘a relaxing sensation’, but that certainly wasn’t the case for me.
“The name laughing gas is misleading. However happy it makes you feel at the time, chances are, it won’t be worth the comedown afterwards.”
Even those with a more positive experience accept its dangers. Ollie, 21, marketing intern said: “Sometimes it can make you feel happy and euphoric but I know people who have said they’ve had dark and scary trips.”
At a recent police community meeting the local policing team stressed they are planning to launch a crackdown on supply of the drug but this has not alleviated residents worries about the impact on their street.
Recent successes have been recorded against the potentially lethal drug with three men prosecuted for trading without a licence. Due to its legality police can only prosecute for technicalities rather than the act itself.
Cllr Stuart McNamara said: “It may appear a cheap, legal and harmless high but laughing gas can have potentially serious consequences. We are not prepared to stand back and let people get away with selling it.”
*Some names have been changed to ensure anonymity.
