Doctors sounded the alarm about a dangerous trend that is not new but resurfaced under a new name. They said they’re seeing a rise in kids using Galaxy Gas as a recreational drug.
Galaxy Gas is a brand of nitrous oxide that is intended for use only in whipped cream chargers and dispensers, according to the Atlanta-based company that makes it. People can use the chargers to transform cream or other ingredients into a whipped state for culinary use.
Nitrous oxide is also known as “laughing gas” and its misuse has been known as “doing whippets” for decades. However, this new, unfamiliar name could mean kids using the gas to get high may go unnoticed, especially since Galaxy Gas and similar products are legal in the U.S. The cans are also often flavored, which experts said that can make them more appealing to young people.
The trend gained popularity on TikTok. However, the platform is trying to stop users from viewing any content they might find by searching Galaxy Gas, instead directing them to resources for help with substance abuse. Still, like pretty much any other barrier in the tech age, kids have found a way around that. Often, they will get around censorship by leaving certain letters out of the tag.
While Galaxy Gas became the popular term for this form of getting high, experts warned parents there are other brands selling similar items that can be used in the same way.
Using nitrous oxide recreationally can be very dangerous because of its impact on the central nervous system, the brain in particular. Inhaling the gas can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and impaired judgment — all hallmarks of the high.
Doctors warn inhaling large amounts over extended periods of time can lead to oxygen deprivation, which can damage brain cells or even kill you.
Doctors also said there are some signs parents can look out for that could indicate your child is misusing nitrous oxide. They include memory gaps, bouts of random laughter, mood changes — especially if they’re inexplicably euphoric — and, of course, finding empty canisters. They also said parents should be suspicious if their kids seem to innocuously ask them to buy whipped cream canisters or if they turn up missing for parents who already have these products.