Do not use N2O gas on patients.

SGGP 09/10/2023 09:51

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

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

Accordingly, the Ministry of Health stated that _N₂O gas does not yet have sufficient legal basis to be recognized as a medicine in Vietnam, therefore medical facilities should not use _N₂O gas on patients without the approval of the Ministry of Health. At the same time, units should strengthen the management of the use of this gas at their facilities to prevent loss, misuse, and improper use. Any unit that allows loss, misuse, or improper use to occur will have its head 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, bottling, and producing _N2O to ensure compliance with the law on chemical management; and to strengthen information, education , and communication efforts to the public, especially teenagers, students, and young people, about the harmful effects and consequences of the misuse and abuse of _N2O gas.

According to the Ministry of Health, the abuse of _N₂O gas (laughing gas) at many entertainment venues is increasing and becoming more complex, significantly affecting the mental and physical health of the public, especially young people. The abuse of _N₂O stimulates the nervous system, causing euphoria and laughter; prolonged use can lead to autism, headaches, fatigue, and physical weakness; high doses can lead to hallucinations.

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