New Regulations Ban 'Party Gas' Amid Rising Health Concerns

In recent weeks, an alarming trend has emerged in the medical community, with increasing numbers of young individuals seeking urgent care for serious neurological issues. Reports indicate that one to two young patients visit Capio St Göran's emergency department weekly, presenting symptoms such as poor balance, loss of sensation, and difficulties with bladder control. Some even exhibit confusion and dementia-like symptoms, despite their youth.

Medical professionals, including neurologist and deputy chief physician at Capio St Göran, have begun to inquire about the use of nitrous oxide, commonly known as 'party gas,' when young patients present with these neurological symptoms. Many confirm their usage, prompting significant concern among healthcare providers.

Over the past five years, the chief physician has encountered around 30 young individuals suffering from severe neurological damage attributed to nitrous oxide. Imaging studies have revealed clear evidence of spinal cord injuries characterized by V-shaped edema resulting from prolonged use of high doses of the gas. The substance disrupts the essential vitamin B12, critical for maintaining the protective sheath around nerves. While most patients recover and the edema subsides, there is limited understanding of potential long-term consequences.

Patients who have abused nitrous oxide over extended periods face additional risks, including the possibility of blood clots in the lungs or brain. As the new legislation is set to be passed, it will prohibit the sale of nitrous oxide to individuals under 18 years old. For adults, the purchase will be limited to a maximum of 18 grams per transaction, roughly equivalent to two standard canisters.

The Social Minister has emphasized the importance of this law, expressing frustration that young people have been at risk of serious harm while profits from the substance have often funded criminal activities. He acknowledges that the legal status of nitrous oxide has contributed to misconceptions regarding its safety.

The new law, effective from July 1, will empower the Public Health Agency to regulate the sale of nitrous oxide and enforce compliance. Law enforcement will also have the authority to confiscate the gas when it is evidently intended for recreational use.

Medical professionals have long argued that the legal status of nitrous oxide should have been addressed sooner, fearing that the current generation of users may suffer lasting neurological impairment. The rise of nitrous oxide as a recreational substance among youth began in the 2010s, with a marked increase in the availability of whipped cream dispensers and cartridges, often used for purposes other than culinary.

While some individuals may believe that moderate use is harmless, the reality is that even small quantities can have dire consequences, particularly for those with pre-existing vitamin B12 deficiencies. A case was highlighted where a woman suffered paralysis after using nitrous oxide during social gatherings over a four-month period.

Despite the absence of physiological dependence associated with nitrous oxide, those who cease usage do not experience withdrawal symptoms. However, many individuals report lingering cognitive issues that may never fully resolve. In the past year, the number of hospitalizations due to nitrous oxide-related complications has doubled, with reports indicating an increase in cases even in the early months of this year.

Public health campaigns have been intensified to raise awareness about the dangers of nitrous oxide, especially among young people. However, some users persist in their belief that taking vitamin B12 supplements can mitigate the risks, a notion that has proven to be false.

While some municipalities have already prohibited the use of nitrous oxide in public spaces, discussions are underway in various countries, including France, regarding the classification of the substance as a narcotic following serious incidents involving impaired drivers.

The new regulations categorize the sale of nitrous oxide in violation of the law as illegal, subjecting offenders to fines or imprisonment for up to six months.