TOPIC: FDA Advises Consumers Not to Inhale Nitrous Oxide Products.  Due to Potential for Severe Adverse Events if Used for Recreational/Non-Food Purposes

AUDIENCE: Consumer, Health Professional, Pulmonology

ISSUE: FDA advises consumers not to inhale nitrous oxide products from any size canisters, tanks, or chargers.  These products are marketed as both unflavored and flavored nitrous oxide canisters and are sold as a food processing propellant for whipped cream and culinary food use.  Intentional misuse or inhalation of contents can lead to serious adverse health events, including death.  These products are being sold online and at retailers, including, but not limited to: Amazon.com, Ebay, Walmart, and at smoke/vape shops and gas stations.  For more information about this alert, click on the red button "Read Alert" below.

BACKGROUND:

• Inhaling nitrous oxide can result in a range of symptoms and serious health problems, from abnormal blood counts, asphyxiation, blood clots, frostbite, headache, impaired bowel and bladder function, lightheadedness, limb weakness, loss of consciousness, numbness, palpitations, paralysis, psychiatric disturbances (delusions, hallucinations, paranoia, depression), tingling, trouble walking, vitamin B12 deficiency, and in some cases, death.
• For some individuals who regularly inhale nitrous oxide, this habit can lead to prolonged neurological effects, including spinal cord or brain damage, even after stopping use.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

• The FDA advises consumers to not misuse or inhale nitrous oxide products.  These products can result in serious adverse health effects, including death, when inhaled.
• Contact your health care providers if you have recently used these products and are concerned about your health.

• Complete and submit the report online.
• Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.