In Cannes, 2,800 nitrogen oxide cartridges were picked up in the streets just in July. In Libourne, it is the mayor himself who denounces the candies strewn with the sidewalks every morning. Faced with this disturbing proliferation, the two municipalities decided to react.
Orders signed to fight against the “proto”
Against the scourge of nitrogen oxide, the commune of Cannes signed a decree on July 25, prohibiting the sale of oxide cylinders to all individuals. Only health and catering professionals will have access to it, between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Mayor David Lisnard justifies this decision by “Recurring to public order disorders“And a”concern for consumption“.
In Libourne, his counterpart Philippe Buisson prohibited detention and consumption on the public highway.
“”Every morning, our agents and Libournais discover dozens of candies or cartridges of this gas strewn our streets. It is not acceptable“, He writes on social networks.
A cheap gas … and easy to access
Initially intended for Chantilly siphons or medical anesthesia, nitrogen oxide seduces for its euphoric effect. Its low cost – 50 cents The dose – and its accessibility make it a prized substance of the youngest. Thus, the average age of consumer is 22 years. But in one in ten cases, it is a minor. “”The number of cases evaluated by the addictovigilance network has been multiplied by 10 since 2019 and the number of serious cases is also increasing “ explained Professor Caroline Victorri-Vigneau, in a previous article.
Faced with the ravages linked to this gas, a decree published on June 1, 2021 to the “Official Journal” in supervision the sale: prohibited for minors and prohibited adults in drinking or tobacco rates. But today, the cartridges are widely accessible and the “proto” has integrated the deal points and the product not being considered as an narcotic, the police can only sanction the offense of sale on the trail. A very skinny arsenal as evidenced by the report in the Bosquet district, published by our colleagues from the Parisian. On a wall visible since visible by then the neighboring department, you can read “Drive Ballons 7/7”. A teenager even entrusts journalists: “The guy of the balloons has just left, he returns around 7 p.m. In fact, it is in the evening, the drive“.
Serious neurological complications, still too neglected
However, behind this recreational use are hidden from real dangers, for health. “”This substance is cheap which makes it a product that interests young people and minors “explains Dr. Amélie Daveluy, head of the Bordeaux addictovigilance center in Sud Ouest.
“”The first desired and immediate effects by inhaling this gas are an euphoric effect – gas makes you laugh, hence its hilarious gas designation -, and sensory distortions “. All for a few seconds. It also alerts immediate side effects: “Asphyxiation, loss of fleeting knowledge, burns, disorientation, dizziness that can cause falls, headache “. Of the Anxious, psychotic psychiatric symptoms and behavioral disorders are usually reported. With larger quantities consumed, other serious complications appear, including cardiovascular or neurological (polyneuritis of the lower limbs, walking disorders or even paralysis …).
Between 2019 and 2022, the addictovigilance network notes a multiplication by ten cases. In 2023, 777 incidents were listed, an increase of 20 to 30 % in one year. Figures that do not spare the youngest: 13 % of complications concern minors. Because according to some experts, we are now far from the recreational consumption of Saturday evening … Addictive disorders have been observed with this product consumed continuously, compulsive, chronic by more and more young people.
From January 2026, a new law could prohibit its sale in all public and businesses, including online.
What to do in case of nitrogen oxide intoxication?
- Nitrogen oxide has many health risks. If, after consumption, you feel numbness in the limbs, a burning or electric discharge sensation, tingling, loss of sensitivity, or difficulties in walking or moving, it is essential to consult a health professional or to contact the anti -poison center on 01 45 42 59 59.
- In the event of discomfort, breathing difficulties or consciousness disorders in your home or a loved one, immediately call an emergency service (112 for medical emergencies, 15 for the SAMU, 17 for firefighters).
- If you are pregnant or plan to be, avoid the consumption of proto, as this could endanger your future child.
What to do in case of dependence?
- The “proto” can lead to dependence. If you or a loved one have trouble controlling or ceasing your consumption, it is advisable to consult a doctor or turn to a structure specializing in the treatment of addictions (CSAPA) or an evaluation and information center on pharmacodependence.
- Young consumer consultations (CJC) offer those who are under 25 and those around them a free and confidential service of reception, listening, advice and, if necessary, of orientation.
- In addition, Drugs Info Service is the national distance assistance service on drugs and public health dependencies. It provides information, advice, support and orientation to the public (www.drogues-info-service.fr or on 0 800 23 13, available 7 days a week, from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., anonymous and free call).