Thai government cracks down on sale of balloons filled with nitrous oxide

The Thai government is cracking down on vendors selling balloons filled with nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to tourists. The trend has become popular in backpacker areas of Bangkok and also in the beach areas popular for full-moon parties.

Travellers should be aware that while nitrous oxide is very safe in controlled medical or dental settings, recreational use can be dangerous. Side effects can include asthma attack, lung damage, hallucinations, seizures, blackouts, incontinence, and stress on the heart.