UNITED KINGDOM — The UK government has announced plans to categorize nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas or NOS, as a class C drug and make its possession illegal by the end of the year.
The move comes as part of the government’s efforts to combat anti-social behavior and curb the recreational use of the gas, which is popular among young adults aged 16 to 24.
Under the new law, individuals found in unlawful possession of nitrous oxide could face a sentence of up to two years in prison or an unlimited fine.
Those involved in the supply or production of the gas could be subject to even harsher penalties, with a maximum sentence of 14 years.
The government has clarified that there will be exemptions for legitimate uses of nitrous oxide, such as in the medical and catering industries. The gas is commonly employed as a painkiller and for producing whipped cream in cooking.
The recreational use of nitrous oxide poses health risks, including headaches, anxiety, paranoia, and, in extreme cases, loss of consciousness.
Heavy and prolonged use can lead to neurological symptoms, including tingling or loss of sensation in the extremities, bladder or bowel problems, erectile dysfunction, and incontinence.
The government’s decision to criminalize possession of nitrous oxide contradicts recommendations from the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs, which deemed such a ban disproportionate to the harm associated with the gas.
Health experts also cautioned against the ban, warning that it could discourage users from seeking medical assistance.
Rising nitrous oxide use
The use of nitrous oxide has surged in recent years, with large quantities of empty canisters collected after events like the Notting Hill Carnival. The gas is typically sold in metal canisters, contributing to litter and environmental concerns.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance approach to anti-social behavior related to drug abuse, stating that individuals caught using laughing gas could face hefty fines or jail time.
Chris Philp, the government’s crime and policing minister, underlined the dangers of nitrous oxide abuse to public health and expressed the government’s commitment to decisive action. Penalties for supply will also be intensified to deter dealers involved in the trade.
Laughing gas will join other drugs like diazepam, GHB, and GBL under the class C categorization. The categorization is issued under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, which assesses drugs based on their perceived harm and potential for misuse.
Critics argue that criminalizing possession may lead to more young people acquiring criminal records and fueling organized crime while making the use of nitrous oxide more dangerous.
Expert concerns
Some neurologists and health experts have voiced concerns over the criminalization of nitrous oxide possession, suggesting that it may not effectively reduce neurological harm and could adversely affect opportunities for individuals not in education or employment.
According to government data, between 2001 and 2020, there were 56 registered deaths involving nitrous oxide in England and Wales, with a significant increase since 2010.
However, experts emphasize that the risk of death from nitrous oxide use remains relatively low compared to other substances like alcohol.
Inhaling nitrous oxide poses risks of unconsciousness, suffocation, and fatal outcomes. Recurrent use can deplete vitamin B12 levels, leading to permanent nerve damage and neurological symptoms.
The impact on spinal cord and limb nerves can result in loss of sensation, muscle weakness, and even paralysis. Other symptoms may include bladder or bowel urgency or incontinence.
Medical professionals are increasingly encountering young individuals with complications stemming from prolonged nitrous oxide use, emphasizing the need for public awareness and education on the associated health risks.
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