UK Outlaws Nitrous Oxide as Class C Drug Amid Health Concerns and Anti-Social Behaviour Issues

Nitrous Oxide, known as 'laughing gas', legal use in healthcare and other industries remains unaffected; however, recreational use could result in fines and imprisonment due to increasing health issues and anti-social behaviors.

The UK has classified Nitrous Oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, as a Class C drug, outlawing its recreational use due to rising health concerns and anti-social behavior issues.
The new law could lead to fines and imprisonment, with repeat users facing up to two years in jail and dealers facing a maximum of 14 years.
Although the substance is now illegal for recreational use, its legitimate application in healthcare and other industries remains unaffected.
Health risks linked with heavy and recreational use of Nitrous Oxide include severe headaches, dizziness, feelings of paranoia, vitamin B12 deficiency, anemia, and can lead to severe nerve damage, potentially causing long-term effects.
Despite advice from the Advisory Council for the Misuse of Drugs against outlawing nitrous oxide, the UK government has proceeded citing reasons such as anti-social behavior, increased littering and health concerns.