The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has cautioned the public against the abuse/misuse of Nitrous Oxide gas at nightclubs and parties in the forms of balloons and canisters to induce euphoria and laughter.
According to the FDA, Nitrous Oxide gas is used as a propellent and a preservative in the food industry and a medical anesthetic analgesic.
In a release signed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Delese A. A. Darko, she said "The Authority hereby cautions the public that the misuse of Nitrous Oxide gas is extremely hazardous and includes risks of low blood pressure, heart attack and anaemia"
The statement also added that abusers of Nitrous Oxide gas are also prone to the risk of suffocating and loss of consciousness.
"Long-term recreational use(abuse) of Nitrous Oxide gas could also compromise the immune system, mental and neurological disorders (hand and foot numbness and limb spasms), depression and incontinence"
The FDA stressed that it strongly admonishes nightclubs, pubs and party organizers to desist from the inappropriate use of Nitrous Oxide gas in their facilities.
"The public is hereby urged to promptly report to the Authority on the abuse of Nitrous Oxide gas"
The Authority says it is collaborating with other relevant stakeholder agencies to address the emerging safety concerns.
"In the meantime, the FDA assures the public of its commitment in ensuring public health and safety through continuous public education, engagement and sensitization of the public on the risks of substances of abuse"
Below are some copies of the release:
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith