Nitrous oxide users can be jailed from today
Nitrous oxide users can be jailed from today (8 November) as possession of laughing gas has become illegal in the UK.
Brits caught with the substance - which is also known as NOS or nangs - with the intent of getting high can be put behind bars.
Nitrous oxide is now classed as a class C drug and those abusing it for 'psychoactive effects' can be locked up for up to two years.
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The maximum possible sentence for laughing gas dealers has also been doubled to 14 years.
The ban comes as part of a government crackdown on anti-social behaviour and to stop the canisters littering the streets.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman said 'yobs' were taking over public spaces and 'leaving a disgraceful mess for others to clean up'.
The health implications of nitrous oxide abuse have also given ministers the push to make possession a criminal offence.
Laughing gas has become popular among young people looking for a quick hit to help them feel relaxed or giggly, but it doesn't come without risks.
Thousands of young people have succumbed to temptation and ended up becoming hooked on the brief high they provide.
But the consequences of using nitrous oxide can be devastating - such as nerve damage and loss of eyesight.
As well as this, too much nitrous oxide can make you faint, lose consciousness, or suffocate, according to FRANK.
From today (8 November), those found in possession of nitrous oxide can be slapped with an unlimited fine, a 'visible' community punishment, a caution which will appear on their criminal record, or a two-year jail term.
But don't worry if you're an innocent chef simply using it to whip cream, as there will be exemptions under the new law.
People won't have to carry laughing gas licenses, but they will have to prove they are lawfully in possession of the drug.
Despite the ban being welcomed by officials, two government-led reviews found the substance wasn't dangerous enough to be made illegal.
The Advisory Council on The Misuse of Drugs warned the move could have 'significant unintended consequences', such as users not seeking medical help through fear.
Leading neurologist in nitrous oxide abuse, Dr David Nicholl, told Sky News: "I am really worried that criminalisation of users will prevent people suffering from side effects from seeking health advice.
"This is already a very disenfranchised community, they are very hesitant to speak to doctors, so they may be even more reluctant knowing that use is illegal."
But Number 10 decided to proceed with the ban and said it 'is entitled and expected to take a broader view and consider other relevant factors.'
The Metropolitan Police's former assistant commissioner Dal Babu said the law will be 'difficult' for cops to enforce.
Olivia Burke