Overview

• French health authorities confirm a 30% rise in nitrous oxide intoxication cases in 2023, with severe cases multiplying by 3.8 times since 2020.
• For the first time, two newborns have experienced neurological damage linked to maternal nitrous oxide use during pregnancy, raising urgent public health concerns.
• The misuse of nitrous oxide, popularly known as 'gaz hilarant,' has intensified, with 50% of users consuming it daily and 59% engaging in prolonged use over a year.
• Women are now as affected as men by nitrous oxide misuse, marking a significant demographic shift from previous trends.
• French lawmakers are actively debating stricter regulations on nitrous oxide sales and recreational use, with ongoing negotiations between parliamentary chambers.