Do not use N2O gas on patients

SGGP October 9, 2023 09:51

The Ministry of Health stated that _N2O gas does not have enough legal basis to be recognized as a medicine in Vietnam, so medical facilities should not use _N2O gas on patients without approval from the Ministry of Health .

On October 8, the Ministry of Health sent an official dispatch to the health departments of provinces and cities regarding the management of the use of _N2O gas (nitrogen oxide gas) on patients.

Accordingly, the Ministry of Health stated that _N2O gas does not have enough legal basis to be recognized as a medicine in Vietnam, so medical facilities must not use _N2O gas on patients without the approval of the Ministry of Health. At the same time, units must strengthen management of the use of this gas at the facility to avoid loss, abuse and misuse. The head of any unit that allows loss, abuse or misuse must be fully responsible before the law.

The Ministry of Health also requested the People's Committees of provinces and cities to direct functional units to strengthen inspection, examination and supervision of establishments importing, trading, decanting and producing _N2O to ensure compliance with the provisions of the law on chemical management; strengthen information, education and communication to people, especially teenagers, pupils and students about the harmful effects and consequences of abusing and misusing _N2O gas...

According to the Ministry of Health, the abuse of _N2O gas (laughing gas, laughing balloons) at many entertainment venues is increasing and very complicated, causing great impact on the mental and physical health of people, especially young people. Abuse of _N2O gas stimulates the nervous system, causes excitement and laughter; long-term use will lead to autism, headaches, fatigue, physical weakness; high doses can lead to hallucinations.

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/khong-su-dung-khi-n2o-tren-nguoi-benh-post709011.html