At a press conference, special investigator Inga-Lill Askersjö presented several proposals for measures, with the health of children and young people in focus.
One of the proposals is about banning snuff and cigarettes during school hours.
– There is already a regulation that prohibits smoking on school grounds and in school buildings, but there is no ban on snuff, she says during a press conference.
The ban would include cigarettes with tobacco, e-cigarettes with nicotine and brown and white snus.
Total ban on nitrous oxide for intoxication
Another proposal in the investigation concerns a total ban on the sale of nitrous oxide for the purpose of intoxication. Currently, nitrous oxide can be bought in regular shops or online as there is no regulation for non-medical use, but we want to see that change.
– Nitrous oxide is not for use as a recreational drug, says special investigator Inga-Lill Askersjö.
The investigation suggests looking at the context in which nitrous oxide is marketed and sold.
– If you think of balloons in a pub being filled with nitrous oxide, it’s pretty clear what they’re going to be used for, says the special investigator.
However, it is proposed to be allowed to buy two cartridges, for example if you are going to use nitrous oxide in cooking, with an age limit of 18 years.
Nitrous oxide can cause nerve damage
Using nitrous oxide to get drunk has become increasingly common, both in Sweden and abroad.
– There has been a belief that the use of nitrous oxide is harmless, because it is not regulated and that nitrous oxide is used in healthcare. But the reality is different, says Social Affairs Minister Jakob Forssmed (KD).
Extensive use of nitrous oxide knocks out vitamin B12 in the body, which can cause nerve damage. You can urinate and become fumbling, but also suffer from more serious symptoms such as psychosis, losing your memory or getting blood clots in the lungs and brain, which can be life-threatening.
Facts about nitrous oxide
• In recent years, the use of nitrous oxide has skyrocketed among youth and young adults.
• Nitrous oxide is used in healthcare, for example during childbirth, and the name comes from the fact that it makes you giggle and relax.
• Short-term use can lead to fainting or frostbite when inhaling directly from the tube.
• In the long term, nitrous oxide knocks out vitamin B12, which can lead to nerve damage, blood clots and psychosis.
Source: Poison Information Centre