12/23/2025
Whippets, the nitrous oxide canisters sold at gas stations, smoke shops, and online, have surged in popularity through social media and party culture. Brands like Galaxy Gas have become part of a growing trend among teens and young adults looking for an accessible, quick high.
These products are anything but harmless. When inhaled, nitrous oxide cuts off oxygen to the brain and can cause asphyxiation, fainting, nerve damage, and serious neurological issues. Repeated use has been linked to vitamin B12 deficiency, brain and spinal cord damage, anemia, a weakened immune system, and long-term nerve injury that can lead to paralysis, and in some cases, death. Use during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects. The FDA has issued public warnings about the serious health risks associated with recreational nitrous oxide use.
What is easy to buy can become difficult to stop. If a weekend experiment has started turning into something more, call or text New Waters for confidential support. 919-670-8119