No laughing matter as Nitrous oxide ban looms

Possessing laughing gas will become illegal in the Isle of Man next month - in line with a similar move in the UK. 

Nitrous oxide is one of the most commonly used recreational drugs among young people but from 8 November it will be classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

Those who choose to ignore the change in the law could find themselves in prison for up to 14 years.

Heavy users of Nitrous oxide expose themselves to significant health risks including anaemia, nerve damage and paralysis - it also has the potential to cause fatal drug-diving incidents.