The Curious Journey of Nitrous Oxide: A Popular Inhalant with Centuries of Use

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Galaxy Gas has brought the drug back into the spotlight, and scientists are raising alarms about its health risks

Ella Jeffries – Staff Contributor

April 8, 2025 8:00 a.m.

In recent times, the use of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, has surged among teenagers, particularly through videos shared on social media platforms. Initially discovered for culinary uses, such as whipping cream, flavored nitrous oxide products like Galaxy Gas have emerged as quick sources of euphoria, with users posting their experiences online. This trend, however, has sparked significant alarm regarding the health implications it poses, especially to the youth.

Criticism of Galaxy Gas’s targeting of younger demographics has been vocalized by artists such as SZA. On social media, she took a stand, stating concerns over its mass marketing to young Black individuals and the lack of governmental oversight. She highlighted the alarming normalization of such products in stores, calling for greater protection for youth.

Experts echo SZA’s concerns about the dangers posed by nitrous oxide misuse, often referred to as “whippets.” Public health advocates have taken notice, as nitrous oxide’s recreational use is not a novel phenomenon. According to Robert Heimer, an epidemiologist from Yale, the use of nitrous oxide for temporary pleasure has historical roots stretching back centuries.

“What’s different now is how teen influencers are promoting its use,” Heimer notes. The availability of nitrous oxide for legitimate purposes, such as in culinary and medical applications, complicates the discussions around its regulation and safety.

The long history of nitrous oxide as a recreational drug

The recreational use of nitrous oxide dates back to the late 18th century. Initially identified in 1772 by Joseph Priestley and later explored by chemist Humphry Davy, nitrous oxide was discovered to produce euphoric effects. Davy’s own experiments led to gatherings where intellectuals inhaled the gas for enjoyment and exploration of consciousness.

The popularity of nitrous oxide blossomed during the 19th century through public demonstrations and exhibitions led by showman Gardner Quincy Colton. These events introduced the gas to the masses, showcasing its effects and even leading to its use in medical anesthesia when dentist Horace Wells witnessed a patient experience no pain after inhaling the gas during a procedure.

Wells’ success threatened to overshadow Davy’s earlier findings and eventually influenced subsequent medical practices, leading to nitrous oxide becoming a staple in surgery and dental work. Although Wells faced a setback, his efforts rekindled interest in nitrous oxide’s potential beyond recreational enjoyment, setting the stage for its dual legacy as both a gas of entertainment and a medical tool.

The science of nitrous oxide: short high, long-term risks

Nitrous oxide operates by obstructing NMDA receptors in the brain, which manage pain perception and memory formation. This obstruction results in euphoric sensations and disorientation. Notably, the gas can also stimulate the release of natural opioids within the body, further enhancing its calming and pain-relieving capabilities.

Experts like Scott Hadland, an addiction specialist, warn that inhaling nitrous oxide can create a disassociation from reality, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. Additionally, when inhaled, the gas can displace oxygen in the body, potentially leading to dizziness or cognitive impairment due to insufficient oxygen supply to the brain.

Repeated use may also compromise vitamin B12 metabolism, which is crucial for various bodily functions. Hadland explains that while not every user will experience severe health issues from sporadic use, persistent inhalation could lead to long-lasting neurological problems.

The accessibility of products like Galaxy Gas makes them particularly appealing to minors, emphasizing the importance of awareness regarding potential psychological dependence, which can arise as youths seek the fleeting high associated with nitrous oxide.

The modern resurgence of nitrous oxide

Today, nitrous oxide is regaining popularity among adolescents, fueled by viral social media content. Galaxy Gas, packaged attractively and marketed with enticing flavors, is often showcased in videos that downplay its risks and present it as a fun, harmless activity. The hashtag #GalaxyGas has gained significant traction on TikTok, garnering millions of views as users showcase their experiences.

In light of these trends, platforms like TikTok have begun redirecting searches for “Galaxy Gas” to substance abuse resources, attempting to educate users about the risks involved. Despite this, videos promoting nitrous oxide use continue to circulate widely.

The once regulated gas is now sold openly in various retail environments, raising questions about enforcement and its intended use. Concerns around nitrous oxide’s implications are mounting as health advocates emphasize the lack of understanding among younger users regarding the potential ramifications of frequent consumption.

Regulatory challenges: a loophole in the system

Some states have initiated restrictions on nitrous oxide sales, with Louisiana leading the charge by implementing an outright ban on recreational sales. Similarly, Indiana’s Alcohol and Tobacco Commission has issued warnings to retailers against illegal sales practices related to the gas.

On a federal level, the FDA oversees nitrous oxide, allowing its sale for specific uses while prohibiting its marketing for recreational inhalation. However, lawsuits against retailers selling Galaxy Gas, allegedly promoting it for inhalation, highlight the challenges of enforcing these regulations amid widespread availability.

A growing number of health advocates argue for tighter age restrictions on nitrous oxide sales to help safeguard youth, asserting that such measures could deter young consumers while raising awareness among parents regarding the potential for misuse.

Nonetheless, opinions vary among public health officials about the necessity of stricter regulations. Heimer suggests that prohibitive measures might inadvertently lead to greater societal issues rather than mitigating risks. The ongoing discussion continues, exemplified by recent legislative actions in Michigan aimed at criminalizing sales of nitrous oxide for non-culinary purposes.

As the discourse evolves, nitrous oxide’s presence remains a complex intersection of science, culture, and regulation, raising vital questions about public health and the responsibility of both consumers and authorities in ensuring safety.

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