Police said they're seeing an 'alarming rise' in the number of young people inhaling nitrous oxide to get high in Cumbria.
It comes after reports of drug use in the area of the Garlands and New Hrraby in Carlisle.
Police, using a mixture of plain clothes and uniform patrols, conducted numerous searches and arrests as a result of the recent crackdown on the use of the lethal drug.
A spokesperson from Cumbria police said there were 15 stop searches for drugs, one arrest for robbery, one arrest for driving a vehicle while under the influence of drugs, two people investigated for possession fo class B cannabis, and a number of nitrous oxide bottled recovered and disposed of.
They said of the use of the drug: "This is extremely dangerous and possessing these bottles is an offence as they are now classed as a Class C drug.
"Do you know where your children are and what they are doing?"
Over the past 20 years, nitrous oxide use has been linked to 56 deaths in England and Wales, mostly since 2010, with the highest number of eight deaths in 2016 and 2019, according to government data.
These fatalities typically occur due to suffocation or heart issues, often when the gas is inhaled in confined spaces or improperly, like with face masks or plastic bags.
Though deaths from nitrous oxide are fewer compared to other substances like benzodiazepines, even occasional misuse can cause fatal outcomes.
Road accidents related to the drug have been reported internationally, but specific UK data is limited due to difficulties in detection.
Heavy nitrous oxide use can cause severe health problems, including damage to the spinal cord and nerves due to vitamin B12 deficiency.
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Symptoms like tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness can lead to serious disability if not treated promptly.
Chronic use can also result in lung damage, frostbite from cold canisters, and psychological issues like paranoia and anxiety.
While the drug’s short-term effects seem mild, its misuse carries risks of long-term harm and even addiction, making awareness and cautious handling essential.
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