Overview

• Frankfurt am Main has enacted a new ordinance prohibiting the sale and transfer of nitrous oxide to minors, including its distribution in balloons.
• The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has issued strong warnings about severe health risks, including oxygen deprivation, brain damage, and potential fatalities from nitrous oxide misuse.
• Nitrous oxide is not currently regulated under Germany's Narcotics or Medicines Acts, creating a legal gap that allows for its recreational use.
• Several German cities and states, including Hamburg, Dortmund, and Hanau, have implemented similar local bans to address the rising misuse among young people.
• Federal legislation remains pending as coalition discussions continue, with growing public support and calls from officials like Frankfurt's mayor Mike Josef for a nationwide ban.