People & Lifestyle
ISPYGH 247 petitions FDA to ban the importation of large quantities of Nitrous Oxide/ laughing gas
Akwasi Koranteng, CEO of ISPYGH 247, a private investigative documentary filmmaking firm focused on public health has petitioned the Food and Drugs Authority of Ghana to ban the importation of large quantities of Nitrous Oxide.
Here is a copy of the petition below:
The Chief Executive Officer,
Food and Drugs Authority (FDA),
Ghana.
Dear Madam,
PETITION: BAN THE IMPORTATION OF LARGE QUANTITIES OF NITROUS OXIDE.
We, ISPYGH 247, a private investigative documentary filmmaking firm focused on public health, specifically the medicine ecosystem in Ghana, petition the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), to take immediate action to address the growing concerns regarding misuse and abuse of nitrous oxide also known as laughing gas, nitro, N2O, NOS, nangs, whippet, hippy crack, buzz bomb or balloons.
BACKGROUND
Our team has investigated and found nitrous oxide readily available on e-commerce websites, beaches, clubs, and pubs in Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, Tema, and Somanya.
The product is sold in cans and balloons, facilitating its recreational use. Its easy availability and unregulated sale have contributed to its widespread misuse which poses significant health risks to users, particularly the youth.
REQUESTS
We request that the FDA:
1. Bans the importation of larger quantities of nitrous oxide:
More specifically, restrict imports to only medical and industrial purposes, with strict licensing and monitoring.
2. Regulate the sale of nitrous oxide:
Limit sales to authorized medical and industrial suppliers, and ensure proper storage and handling.
13. Enforce strict penalties:
Impose severe sanctions on individuals and businesses found selling or misusing nitrous oxide for recreational purposes.
4. Public awareness campaigns:
Conduct nationwide education campaigns highlighting nitrous oxide abuse’s dangers.
5. Collaborate with law enforcement:
Work closely with agencies to monitor and prevent illicit trade.
JUSTIFICATION
The ban and regulation of nitrous oxide importation and sale will:
1.
Protect public health, particularly the youth, from the harmful effects of nitrous oxide abuse.
2.
Reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities associated with its recreational use.
3.
Align Ghana with international best practices in regulating hazardous substances.
CONCLUSION
We urge the FDA to take prompt action to address this critical issue. Your leadership in regulating nitrous oxide will contribute significantly to safeguarding the health and well-being of Ghanaians.
We have painstakingly conducted an investigation, documenting our findings in a comprehensive documentary that will be published soon for the general public. Please have our highest assurances relative to further cooperation in this matter .
Thank you for considering our petition.
Signed
Akwasi Koranteng
CEO
ISPYGH 247
Date: 18/09/2024
Cc:
Vice President, Presidency.
Minister, Ministry of Health
President, Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana
Registrar, Pharmacy Council Ghana
Registrar, Medical and Dental Council
Registrar Nursing and Midwifery Council
Registrar, Psychological Council
Registrar, Health Facilities Regulatory Agency
Registrar, Traditional Medicine Practice Council
The Media
