The Belgian Government is preparing to prohibit the sale, import, possession and consumption of nitrous dioxide, and to introduce the so-called “laughing gas” at the level of cannabis in Belgian legislation. The royal decree that the Executive will approve this Friday, according to public radio and television RTBF, will only allow the acquisition of this substance physically or online for medical, technical purposes or as a food additive.

The gas, encapsulated in small metal cylinders or cartridges, is used by health professionals and also has applications in computing or baking, among others. In its recreational aspect, it is placed in a balloon from which it is inhaled and in about 15 seconds it produces feeling of well-being, disinhibition, relaxation and euphoriaand its effects last for about two minutes.

Also called nitrogen monoxide, hyponitrous oxide, nitrogen protoxide or “proto” in slang, can cause headaches, nausea and vomiting, as well as heart or tension disorders, especially if consumed regularly. The frequent use of “laughing gas”, the sale of which is already prohibited in Belgium to minors, requires increasing the dose to obtain the same effect, which also increases the health risk.

Belgian authorities have been trying for several years to limit the use of this substance, which has gained some popularity among young people, and different localities have already banned it at the municipal level.