When exposed to pepper spray the breathing tissues become inflamed rapidly, resulting in breathing difficulties.
Although the recipient can breathe enough to stay alive, the experience can be extremely debilitating.
Individuals may feel that they are choking and start to panic.
Studies have shown that pepper spray is effective to use on people who are drunk, on drugs, or suffering a psychotic episode.
In India, there is no licence required to use it. It is sold through state-approved companies.
There is growing concern about its safety particularly when fatal accidents have been reported.
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