Germany Enacts Stricter Controls on Nitrous Oxide and Knockout Drugs to Protect Public Health

The German government, with approval from the Bundesrat, has passed new legislation introducing stringent regulations on nitrous oxide (Lachgas) and incapacitating substances commonly known as knockout drops (K.o.-Tropfen). The law aims to curb the growing recreational misuse of these substances, particularly among minors, and to enhance public safety and health protections. It is set to come into effect in April 2026 after a three-month transitional period.

Nitrous oxide, widely used as a party drug by young people often inhaled from balloons, will now be tightly regulated. The law forbids the acquisition and possession of nitrous oxide for minors and restricts adults to purchasing a maximum of ten cartridges of up to 8.4 grams each per transaction. Sales of nitrous oxide cartridges via vending machines will be banned. Exceptions remain for cartridges intended for culinary use, such as those used to make whipped cream.

In parallel, the law addresses the risks posed by substances like Gamma-Butyrolacton (GBL) and 1,4-Butandiol (BDO), chemicals often used to incapacitate victims by being added surreptitiously to drinks. Their production and sale will be prohibited under the new regulations to prevent sexual assaults and other criminal misuse.

Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) highlighted the significant health dangers associated with nitrous oxide misuse, including loss of consciousness and nerve damage. The measures have received backing from police and medical experts, though calls remain for increased public education on the dangers of both nitrous oxide and knockout drugs.

This law represents a comprehensive approach to controlling substances that have become public health concerns due to abuse, especially among younger populations. With these legislative steps, Germany aims to restrict access, enhance safety, and better protect vulnerable groups from the harms associated with these drugs.