“Galaxy Gas” is a form of nitrous oxide and a catchall term for a new trend on social media, with potentially dangerous consequences for teens and others who abuse the substance. The nitrous oxide, also known as "laughing gas" in Galaxy Gas is abused by being inhaled to create a euphoric high.
Although the product is legal to buy, many states are prohibiting the use of Galaxy Gas as an inhalant and social media platforms are banning users from searching for the term.
What is Galaxy Gas?
Galaxy Gas is a confectionary product widely used among young people and on social media as part of a new viral trend. It is a canister containing nitrous oxide, which is used to produce whipped cream and other foamed foods.
It is abused as a recreational drug by inhaling the contents to achieve a ‘high’, often by teens and young adults.
Nitrous oxide is known as ‘laughing gas’ and is used medicinally as a sedative or in culinary products to create airy food and drinks such as whipped cream. Recreational use of nitrous oxide as an inhalant has been common throughout the United States for many years. Galaxy Gas is a new product, linked to the recent resurgence of this type of drug abuse. [1]
Is Galaxy Gas the same as whippets?
Yes, whippets are also small canisters containing nitrous oxide. Whippets became popular around 20 years ago as a way of inhaling nitrous oxide for a short-term high. Inhaling the contents of these canisters is referred to as huffing, bagging, or chroming. Galaxy Gas is a new product being used by teens in the same way as whippets.[2]
The primary difference between the two products is the volume of nitrous oxide that comes in the canister, with Galaxy Gas coming in significantly larger canisters.
Why has it become popular amongst teens?
Social media trends centering on Galaxy Gas abuse are the main contributor to their popularity among teens and adolescents.
Galaxy Gas originally became popular among teens as it creates a euphoric high, giving feelings of sedation, relaxation, pain relief, and floating sensations, and is more easily obtainable than narcotics or other drugs. These effects occur rapidly and last only a short time, contributing to its repeated use. [2]
Because it is a legal product to purchase, some may consider it not to be a drug or not to be as harmful as other drugs, which may contribute to its popularity. Additionally, Galaxy Gas products are sold in various flavors and colors, making them appealing to young people. [3]
Is Galaxy Gas illegal?
Galaxy Gas is intended for culinary purposes, such as making whipped cream, so it is not illegal to buy. However, some states have specific laws about purchasing, selling, and using nitrous oxide products such as Galaxy Gas. In some states, it is illegal to possess, sell, or use these products with the intention of inhaling the gas. [4][5]
When visiting the Galaxy Gas website, a disclaimer states, “It is unlawful for a person to purchase products containing nitrous oxide for any purpose not intended herein and legally authorized… Intentional misuse or inhalation of contents is prohibited and poses a serious health hazard”. [6]
The website also indicates that only people over 21 years old can view or order from them. They have recently removed whipped cream chargers (the canisters used for this purpose) from their list of available products. [6]
Why has TikTok banned the search term?
Many young people were sharing videos on TikTok, a social media platform, showing themselves using Galaxy Gas to get high. This became a trend and increasing numbers of young people were seen to be using the product this way. [3]
TikTok has since banned the search of ‘Galaxy Gas’, as they do not want to show or promote drug abuse.
Searching for the term Galaxy Gas on the platform now results in the message, ‘This phrase may be associated with behavior or content that violates our guidelines. Promoting a safe and positive experience is TikTok’s top priority.’ as part of their Youth Safety and Well-Being guidelines.
The risks of abusing Galaxy Gas
Inhaling nitrous oxide from products such as Galaxy Gas can cause many health issues and potentially severe long-term effects.
Short-term effects
Short-term effects of Galaxy Gas include: [1][2][7]
- Sedation
- Increased breathing rate
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Impaired judgment
- Blurry vision
- Fainting
Long-term effects
Long-term and severe effects of Galaxy Gas can include: [1][2][7]
- Low blood pressure
- Decreased oxygen levels in the blood (hypoxia)
- Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
- Depression
- New or worsening psychotic symptoms, particularly hallucinations
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Neurological issues, including problems with coordination and balance, memory loss, and unusual sensations in arms and legs (paresthesia)
- Nerve damage
- Brain damage
- Kidney damage
- Liver damage
If Galaxy Gas is used alongside other substances, risks may be increased. For example, using Galaxy Gas with sedatives, alcohol, or opioids can significantly increase the risk of respiratory depression. [1]
Getting help for Galaxy Gas abuse
People who regularly misuse drugs may experience issues with their health, professional and social functioning, and general well-being. Reducing or stopping drug use can be challenging and many people find this process easier with the help of professional interventions.
Various types of substance use disorder treatments are available that can help people stop using Galaxy Gas, including:
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