The HSE is warning young people that they could die by using laughing gas.
It says it is aware the trend is emerging among Irish festival-goers.
Cartridges of nitrous oxide can be easily bought online for eight quid, and are usually inhaled using a balloon.
Nitrous oxide is intended for use in dentistry and whipped cream canisters.
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The HSE says that when inhaled the gas temporarily prevents oxygen from entering the bloodstream, potentially causing suffocation.
Long-term use can lead to Vitamin B deficiency and issues with red blood cells.
The drug is to be placed on a blacklist of forbidden substances in the Netherlands.
Image: Laughing gas canisters, ProMo-Cymru, stock.
