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Cologne Advances Ban on Nitrous Oxide Sales to Minors

The city proposes mandatory age checks and fines as Germany's Health Minister pushes for nationwide restrictions on the party drug.

Seit 2010 wird Lachgas vermehrt als Party-Droge verwendet, dabei warnen Experten vor Langzeitschäden (Symbolbild).
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Overview

  • Cologne plans to ban the sale and distribution of nitrous oxide to minors, requiring vendors to verify buyers' ages.
  • The proposed ordinance includes fines of up to €1,000 for violations, with a council vote expected by May 27, 2025.
  • Federal Health Minister Nina Warken has announced draft legislation to prohibit nitrous oxide sales to minors, as well as through vending machines and online platforms.
  • Medical experts warn that recreational use of nitrous oxide can cause severe health effects, including nerve damage and psychological symptoms.
  • Cases of nitrous oxide poisoning in Germany have surged, with 48 documented cases in 2024 compared to 2–3 annually in earlier years.