Nitrous Oxide: Laughing gas officially banned from today
It means people could serve jail term for possessing it.
Last updated 8th Nov 2023
Using nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is now a criminal offence in England and Wales from today.
It means nitrous oxide will be listed as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
The use of laughing gas soared during the pandemic, becoming one of the most-used substances by 16-to-24-year-olds in the UK.
According to a government report, heavy use of the drug can lead to a vitamin B12 deficiency, which can damage nerves in the spinal cord.
The ban has come into force as part of the government's anti-social behaviour action plan.
It means serial users could face jail time of up to two years, and suppliers can be put behind bars for 14 years.
However, Dr David Nicholl is a Consultant Neurologist at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and thinks that the ban isn't the best direction to go in.
He said: "I think we should be approaching this as a public health issue.
"So, the most important aspect is education, and being able to explain to people just the dangers of nitrous oxide, and the very real risk of harm it is causing to patients me and my colleagues see in hospital.
"It's affecting young lives and possibly leaving to neurological disability.
Another thing Dr Nicholl believes should be the focus is suppliers.
Nitrous oxide will still be available to buy as a propellant gas for whipped cream and any other industrial purposes.
Dr David Nicholl said: "In ten minutes I could take you round the corner to shops that I know sell this stuff.
"We need to be taking action against the suppliers, rather than criminalising users."
The ban comes into force from today (8 November).