The Ghana Anaesthetists Society (GAS) and the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) have supported the Food and Drugs Authority’s (FDA) decision to clamp down on illicit use of Nitrous Oxide across the country.
The two groups, in a statement signed by GMA President Dr.(Med). Frank Serebour and General Secretary Dr.(Den). Richard Selormey, on December 4, 2023, raised concern about the abusive usage of Nitrous Oxide, popularly known as “Balloon” or “Laughing Gas”, for recreational purposes.
Also, the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) lamented the ease of access to the “potentially dangerous drug” that is often used at nightclubs.
Nitrous oxide is one of the anaesthetic gases in clinical use. As an anaesthetic drug, it has the potential to reduce consciousness, which is accompanied by breathing difficulties and cardiovascular depression.
It is also known to worsen respiratory conditions like pneumothorax and increase the risk of developing severe forms of pneumonia.
Its prolonged use can cause anaemia and nerve damage, especially in patients with underlying nutrient deficiency (Vitamin B12). It also has the potential for addiction with the likelihood of severe harm and death.
The use of the drug can also compromise breathing which can kill in less than 10 minutes. This mandates that Nitrous Oxide is used strictly by trained personnel (Anaesthesiologists) who have the requisite knowledge and skill to manage its side effects in a hospital environment.
GAS, the professional body of all Doctor Anesthetists (Anaesthesiologists) in Ghana and the GMA, further called on the police and other security agencies to join the fight to prevent the illicit use of Nitrous Oxide, especially at entertainment centres, to save the lives of revellers.
Below is the full statement from the Ghana Medical Association