The Government has taken action on nitrous oxide being used for recreational purposes

Medsafe is now advising when nitrous products -- or nangs -- are sold for the purpose of inducing a psychoactive effect, it now falls under the Psychoactive Substances Act.

No products containing nitrous oxide have been approved for use under the act, making it illegal to sell for recreational use.

Health Minister Dr Shane Reti, says nitrous oxide has several legitimate uses like as an anaesthetic, but they also know it's being increasingly used recreationally.

He says Police and health officials have reported recreational use is on the rise globally, as seen in countries like the UK -- who have classified it as a Class C drug.