Ohio Valley Times

Whippits, also known as nitrous oxide canisters, are used recreationally for a brief euphoric high. They contain nitrous oxide, a colorless gas with legitimate applications in medical anesthesia and whipped cream dispensers. The process involves breaking the seal on the cartridge using a dispenser to inhale the gas. This misuse is prevalent at social gatherings, though it masks potential long-term health risks.

Nitrous oxide's legality poses unique risks due to its accessibility. In the U.S., anyone 18 or older can purchase whippits from smoke shops and convenience stores. This ease of access increases the likelihood of misuse, particularly among young adults whose brains are still developing. Despite being legal, there is no breathalyzer test for detecting nitrous oxide's effects.

A study published in Clinical Neurophysiology found that nitrous oxide could induce a temporary drug-induced coma by producing slow-delta waves more powerful than those during natural sleep. Repeated inhalation of whippits can reduce oxygen levels over time, affecting the respiratory system.

The effects of whippits last around 15 seconds, but this short duration may encourage repeated use to maintain euphoria. Medical use of nitrous oxide is safe under supervision due to controlled dosages; however, misuse lacks such oversight.

Research indexed by PubMed highlighted cases where individuals with undiagnosed vitamin B12 deficiency developed neurological deficits after using nitrous oxide. These findings emphasize the importance of medical screening before its use.

Nitrous oxide was first synthesized in 1772 by English chemist Joseph Priestley and later experimented on by Humphry Davy for its euphoric effects. Today, it remains common in medical settings mixed with oxygen for safety.

Despite its legal status and dissociative effects causing sensations like euphoria and hallucinations, addiction to nitrous oxide is possible but less prevalent than other substances. High-profile cases like Steve-O and Demi Moore have brought attention to this issue.

In 2025, approximately 13.9 million Americans aged 12 and older reported recreational use of nitrous oxide according to a survey by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Social media platforms have contributed to normalizing its use among teenagers and young adults.

Prolonged abuse can lead to brain damage due to oxygen deprivation and nerve damage from vitamin B12 deficiency among other health issues. Comprehensive treatment options include individual therapy focusing on personal issues related to addiction as well as group therapy providing mutual support among individuals facing similar challenges.

Seeking help through recovery programs addressing both physical withdrawal symptoms alongside mental health conditions is crucial for overcoming whippits addiction effectively while preventing relapse through strategies like building support networks or creating structured routines focused on positive activities aimed at maintaining sobriety long term.