No. Nitrous oxide (whippits) is illegal in Costa Rica under the Ley de Estupefacientes, Sustancias Psicotrópicas, Drogas de Uso no Autorizado, Actividades Conexas, Legitimación de Capitales y Financiamiento al Terrorismo (Law No. 8204). The Consejo Nacional de Drogas classifies it as a controlled substance, and unauthorized possession or distribution carries penalties up to 15 years imprisonment.
Key Regulations for Nitrous Oxide (Whippits) in Costa Rica
- Controlled Substance Classification: Nitrous oxide is listed under Schedule II of Law No. 8204, requiring special permits for medical or industrial use only.
- Penalties for Unauthorized Use: Possession without authorization is punishable by 3–15 years imprisonment, per Article 77 of the same law.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The Ministerio de Salud is drafting stricter enforcement guidelines, including mandatory reporting for bulk purchases of medical-grade nitrous oxide.
Local authorities, including the Fuerza Pública and Organismo de Investigación Judicial, actively monitor online sales and street distribution. Exemptions exist solely for licensed medical facilities under Reglamento de Uso Terapéutico de Gases Medicinales.