LONDON 

Nitrous oxide, also known as "laughing gas" will be illegal in the UK by the end of the year, the government announced Tuesday.

The government is set to outlaw nitrous oxide, making it an illegal Class C substance as part of a plan to tackle anti-social behavior.

"Those in unlawful possession could face up to two years in prison or an unlimited fine," the Home Office said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Possession of nitrous oxide is currently not illegal, although its recreational use is banned.

As of the end of the year, those caught producing or selling it could also face up to 14 years in prison.

It is known as the second most commonly used drug among 16- to 24-year-olds in England after cannabis.

Following the announcement, Home Secretary Suella Braverman said her government promised "a zero-tolerance approach" to anti-social behavior.

"With this new ban on nitrous oxide and increased police patrols in hotspot areas, perpetrators of ASB (anti-social behavior) will face swift justice and our communities will be safer," she said on X.

In March, Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove said that nitrous oxide is set to be banned under government plans to clamp down on anti-social behavior.

Nitrous oxide, an odorless, colorless and sweet-tasting gas, can cause a range of issues including transient dizziness, dissociation, disorientation, loss of balance, impaired memory and cognition, and weakness in the legs.