In the law – which implies that laughing gas may not be sold if there is specific reason to assume that the laughing gas will be used as an intoxicant – there is also a ban on selling laughing gas to minors.
Most of those who abuse are 20–30 years old, but it's good that you prohibit for the young. Then the influx into this abuse, says Johanna Nordmark Grass, chief physician at the Poison Centre.
Increasing use
Laughing gas is used in healthcare and industry. But in recent years, a market has emerged where they market the gas to young people with the clear intention of selling it as a party drug, something the new law will put a stop to.
When the law comes into effect, a limit will also be introduced for how much laughing gas can be purchased at each occasion.
It's possible that you can abuse it too if you really want to, but it will be something completely different from the kilos you can order home to your door now, says Nordmark Grass.
The Netherlands are ahead
Kai Knudsen, chief physician in intensive care at Sahlgrenska University Hospital and expert in clinical toxicology, welcomes the law.
Finally, I would say, it has taken long enough. Many young people have suffered serious neurological damage from the use of laughing gas with numbness, muscle weakness, but also psychoses have been reported.
He tells that in the Netherlands, where a similar law change was made in 2023, they have seen a significant decrease in both the number of cases that needed medical care and police reports.
The Public Health Agency will exercise supervision over those who have been reported as sellers of laughing gas to consumers.
Selling laughing gas in contravention of the law can lead to fines or imprisonment for up to six months.
Marcus Alexandersson/TT
Facts: Laughing gas
TT
In recent years, the use of laughing gas has skyrocketed among young people and young adults.
Laughing gas is used in healthcare, including during childbirth, and the name comes from the fact that you become giggly and relaxed from it.
Short-term use can lead to fainting or cold injuries when inhaled directly from the tube. In the long term, laughing gas knocks out vitamin B12, which can lead to nerve damage, blood clots, and psychoses.
Source: The Poison Information Centre
