Nitrous Oxide - complete ban

Recreational drugs and highs are always developing and changing and in recent years there has been increased use of nitrous oxide, a gas which at one time could only be found in medical settings and used in medical procedures where it gained the common name of laughing gas due to its relaxing effects.

However, it is now used in many domestic appliances and has become more readily available in small canisters. The side effects of use are significant, ranging from transient dizziness, dissociation, disorientation, to loss of balance, impaired memory and cognition, and weakness in the legs. This can lead to low-level injuries from tripping and falling, but some fatal accidents have been reported due to due to asphyxia (hypoxia).

The canisters can be sold legally although there are some restrictions already in place:

• It is illegal to sell nitrous oxide to anyone under the age of 18.
• It is illegal to supply for human consumption (penalty is up to 7 years in prison or unlimited fine)

But It is not illegal to possess nitrous oxide.

It is reported that following the surge in use and the visible evidence of this from the presence of many cannisters on the high streets of most towns the government is considering a ban on the sale of nitrous oxide. The Home Office has asked for the findings of a report into the harm caused by laughing gas to be delivered .It is also reported that the policing minister, Chris Philip wanted this review into nitrous oxide by the independent Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs to be fast-tracked to April. It is speculated that this will allow a formal announcement on a ban as part of the government's anti-social behaviour strategy due later this year could be on the cards.

Such legislation will need to be carefully drafted as some exemptions will be needed to allow for medical use and that of the catering industry.