Possession of laughing gas will be made illegal in three weeks, with repeat offenders facing up to two years in prison, and nitrous oxide dealers up to 14 years behind the bars.
The ban will take effect on November 8th, making nitrous oxide a prohibited Class C narcotic under the Misuse of Drugs Act of 1971.
It is one of the most popular recreational substances among teenagers.
marijuana comes after MPs decisively agreed to classify marijuana as a class C drug last month, by 404 votes to 36.
Critics have previously argued that a ban would prevent users from obtaining medical care, but the government says it is cracking down on unruly behaviour and drug use in public.
The substance, which comes in little metal canisters, is a colourless gas that is often used as a pain reliever in medicine and dentistry, as well as to make whipped cream in the kitchen.
It is smoked as a recreational drug and can cause users to feel relaxed, giggly, light-headed, or dizzy.
The drug can produce headaches and make some users uncomfortable or paranoid, and excessive usage can cause people to pass out or lose consciousness.
Penalties for possessing the substance could include an unlimited fine, community service, or a caution, and for “repeat serious offenders”, a prison sentence of up to two years, the Home Office said.
And the maximum sentence for production or supply of the drug for unlawful purposes will be 14 years.
There will be exemptions for using nitrous oxide for legitimate reasons, such as in maternity wards for pain relief during labour or in catering.
People will not be required to carry licences but will need to demonstrate they are lawfully in position of the substance and not intending to use it for psychoactive effects.
And the government says legitimate suppliers of nitrous oxide must not be “reckless” as to whether someone is purchasing the substance to misuse it, adding: “Turning a blind eye will be committing an offence.”