The prevalence of smoke shops is making it easier to purchase “laughing gas” or nitrous oxide in large quantitites, according to Rachel Hale, author of “Huffing Gas Is Back,” U.S.A. Today, February 2, 2025. It is estimated that 13 million Americans have misused this substance according to a report in The New York Times, “A Look at Galaxy Gas and Who is Inhaling it,” October 3, 2024 by Callie Holtermann.
Despite the fact that New York passed a law in 2021 that stated no one under twenty-one can purchase whipped cream chargers “whippets,” teens and college kids are attracted to the easy access of laughing gas, an inhalant, for their raves, college parties, especially in the large canisters. It is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Miami Magic Infusions and Galaxy Gas online show users abusing their products that are colorful to attract attention.
What Exactly Is The Appeal?
It’s a cheap “high” that restricts oxygen flow to the brain, thus making it dangerous. It can produce an altered state that lasts 30 to 45 seconds. Here are some of the side effects:
- nausea and drowsiness
- heart failure
- potential frostbite and chill burns around mouth, throat and fingers
- memory loss, attention and judgment
- depression and anxiety disorders
- euphoria
- numbness
- sedation
- giddiness
- uncontrollable laughter
- uncoordinated movements
- confusion
- dizziness and/or light headness
- sweating
- feeling unusually tired or weak
- sudden death
The long-term effects are:
- memory loss
- vitamin B12 depletion
- ringing or buzzing in the ears
- incontinence
- numbness in hands or feet
- limb spasms
- birth defects
- weakened immune system
- disruption to reproductive system
- depression
- psychosis
- psychological dependence
Source: Alcohol & Drug Foundation (ADF)
Parents, Talk to your Kids
Usage of inhalants is up just as mental health disorders of young adults are as well!

Wesley Cullen Davidson
Wesley Cullen Davidson is an award-winning freelance writer and journalist specializing in parenting. Currently, she is targeting her writing about recovery to parents whose children have substance abuse disorders.