The Hidden Dangers of “Whippets:” Understanding the Risks of Nitrous Oxide Misuse

In recent months, videos of influencers, celebrities and teenagers inhaling nitrous oxide, also referred to as "whippets," have gone viral on social media platforms. Originally used in medical and dental settings to help relieve anxiety and pain, the gas is now being misused, particularly by teens and young adults, to achieve a temporary high.

What is nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is used in controlled medical environments to sedate patients during medical and dental procedures or to relieve pain. The gas slows down the nervous system, producing calming effects and a sense of euphoria. Nitrous oxide has other legitimate uses such as food preparation and boosting the performance of cars. It is sold in small canisters known as “chargers”.

What are whippets?

The drug is often called “whippets” because one of the most common forms of nitrous oxide is whipped cream chargers. Other names include:

• Laughing Gas
• Nitro
• Nos
• Balloons

“Whippets” tend to have intoxicating effects and a short-term high that lasts only a few minutes. People may feel a rush of euphoria, numbness, or disassociation.

Is it harmful?

While nitrous oxide is not classified as an illegal substance by the DEA and is not controlled by the Controlled Substances Act, its misuse still poses significant dangers. Inhaling nitrous oxide can cause a range of harmful effects, from mild symptoms like dizziness and disorientation to more severe outcomes such as heart failure, irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, permanent damage to the nervous system, and death.

Chronic use can also lead to degenerative conditions, including damage to the spinal cord and blood cells, as well as strain on the liver and kidneys. Additionally, prolonged or repeated use can increase the risk of sudden death, particularly in situations where a user is inhaling the substance in a confined space or alongside other drugs.

Nitrous oxide drops to extremely low temperatures when it is quickly expelled from a high-pressure environment. Those who make the mistake of inhaling directly from a canister can get frostbite on the mouth, nose, or face.

Is nitrous oxide addictive?

Nitrous oxide has been mentioned in studies for many years, but people didn’t recognize it as an addiction until later. While it’s not completely clear how it can be addictive, using nitrous oxide regularly can cause cravings and affect a person’s health and relationships. Future research should focus on educating the public about nitrous oxide addiction, helping to identify people with this problem, and finding ways to treat it. The gas has also been connected to long-term brain damage, especially in young people, because it impacts the prefrontal cortex, which controls decision-making, learning, and memory.