The other day, while walking along the riverside in Mortlake, I noticed two shiny metal canisters lying abandoned on the pavement. A few steps further, I spotted more scattered in the grass – tiny silver bottles I’d seen before in parks and playgrounds, never quite knowing what they were. This time, curiosity got the better of me. I started asking around and discovered something unsettling: these innocuous-looking capsules are being used by teenagers to inhale what’s known as Fast Gas – a cheap, readily available and alarmingly popular drug.
What Is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is a colourless, odourless substance commonly used in medical and catering industries – think dental procedures or whipped cream dispensers. But in recent years, it has gained popularity as a recreational drug, especially amongst young people. Inhaled from balloons filled using these little canisters, the gas produces a short-lived high: euphoria, dizziness, and distorted sound – effects that last only a few minutes.
Why Are Teens Turning to It?
Teens are drawn to Fast Gas because it’s easy to find, relatively cheap, and was until recently still legal to purchase in shops and online. The canisters are small and discreet, and the effects hit quickly. Add to this the influence of social media, where videos of teens getting high off balloons are posted like party tricks, and it’s not hard to see why this trend has taken hold.
Health Risks and Legal Changes
What many young people don’t realise is that nitrous oxide is far from harmless. In the short term, it can cause nausea, headaches, and loss of coordination. Repeated or heavy use can result in vitamin B12 deficiency, nerve damage, or even fatal oxygen deprivation.
Recognising the danger, the UK government reclassified nitrous oxide as a Class C drug in November 2023. It is now illegal to possess the gas with intent to inhale for recreational purposes, and those caught could face fines or even prison.
What Can Parents Do?
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Educate Yourself: Learn about Fast Gas and how it’s being used.
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Talk Openly: Have honest conversations with your teen — not lectures — about drug use and peer pressure.
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Spot the Signs: Look out for small silver canisters, balloons, or sudden changes in behaviour.
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Get Support: If you suspect your child is using, don’t panic. Reach out to your GP or local support services for guidance.
As parents, we can’t always control what our children encounter – but we can give them the tools and knowledge to make safer choices. And next time you see those little bottles left behind in the park, you’ll know they’re more than just litter.
