UK to ban laughing gas as it becomes most popular recreational drug among youngsters

The plan to ban laughing gas could be introduced by UK home secretary Suella Braverman, as per reports. After it is passed, the people possessing the laughing gas could be prosecuted. Nitrous oxide is usually inhaled by young people in the country from balloons which are filled with small metal cylinders.

According to reports, discarded nitrous oxide is a common sight on high streets as well as at festivals. In 2019-2020, one in 10 between 16 and 24 years old is said to have taken the drug. It is to note that under 2016 legislation, it is already illegal in the UK to use nitrous oxide for psychoactive effects. The gas also has definite uses such as for producing whipped cream or for freezing food. Hence, it is easily available online.



The planned change in UK law with regards to banning laughing gas was first reported by The Times. The change would allow the gas to be possessed only for legitimate reasons as it is used for pain relief in situations such as child birth. However, the new law would ban recreational use and supply. Most likely, nitrous oxide could bracket under the same classification as cannabis in the nation.

The move would follow former home secretary Priti Patel asking the independent Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) to review the harms of laughing gas in 2021 with a view to the ban in near future. Nitrous oxide is known for producing a sense of euphoria and hallucinations. However, it can cause impaired memory, dizziness, and leg weakness. It is also the reason for neurological problems.

FAQs:

1. What is laughing gas?
   Nitrous Oxide
2. What happens if you inhale laughing gas?
   Nitrous oxide is known for producing a sense of euphoria and hallucinations. However, it can cause impaired memory, dizziness, and leg weakness. It is also the reason for neurological problems.