Drug and Alcohol - Trends and Statistics
What Is Galaxy Gas? Effects, Risks, and Appeal to Teens
What is Galaxy Gas? This brand of flavored whipped cream chargers, while meant for culinary use, has become a dangerous trend thanks to TikTok and Instagram.
Galaxy Gas is a culinary brand established in 2021 that sells flavored whipped-cream chargers and dispensers containing nitrous oxide, popularly known as "whippets." While it's sold as whipped cream canisters for use in the kitchen, many teens and young adults have recently started using them recreationally for the euphoric high associated with NO2 misuse.
Concerns have been raised over the brand's range of options, website, and marketing, which all seem to target younger generations with candy-like flavors, bright colors, and whimsical graphics. Social media has made it especially popular, specifically on TikTok and Instagram, with viral videos showing people inhaling the gas for a quick, euphoric effect — but this trend is extremely dangerous, seeing as nitrous oxide can cause serious health issues from brain damage and heart problems to respiratory failure.
What Is Galaxy Gas?
Galaxy Gas is a brand of flavored nitrous oxide, often referred to as “laughing gas” or “whippets.” The company's whipped cream canisters feature flavors like watermelon lemonade, grape soda, mango smoothie, and blue raspberry, all of which seem to appeal to a younger crowd. Although it’s intended for culinary use, many people — mostly youth and young adults — have recently started to use Galaxy Gas recreationally for its quick, euphoric effects, which occur because whippets temporarily disrupt the central nervous system by reducing oxygen supply.
Why Is Galaxy Gas Dangerous?
Inhaling Galaxy Gas to get high can be extremely dangerous, as misusing nitrous oxide can lead to oxygen deprivation, causing dizziness, fainting, and even unconsciousness. Long-term use can damage the brain and nervous system, affecting memory and coordination. The cold gas can also cause frostbite on the nose, lips, or throat, and there’s a higher risk of accidents when users are disoriented.
Severe dangers include the risk of heart attacks and sudden death, especially when combined with other substances. Lastly, the gas can cause serious lung damage and respiratory issues, making its misuse potentially life-threatening.
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The Rise of Galaxy Gas on Social Media
Social media has played a huge role in making Galaxy Gas popular. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are full of videos showing people inhaling the gas for a quick high. These videos often go viral, making it seem cool and harmless to use nitrous oxide this way. Teens and young adults are especially drawn to it because it’s so easy to access and promises a short, intense high. The more people see these videos, the more they think it’s normal and safe to use Galaxy Gas.
One of the most famous videos features a teen who calls himself “Lil T Man.” In the clip, he inhales from a Galaxy Gas canister and introduces himself with a funny, deep voice caused by the gas. This video has millions of views and shares, which exploded it into a far-reaching meme and made Galaxy Gas even more popular. Other viral videos show groups of friends using Galaxy Gas together, showing just how widespread its use has become among younger audiences.
Other celebrities and public figures are speaking out against Galaxy Gas, taking it upon themselves to keep young consumers informed about their risks. Rapper Lil Gnar, for example, posted this short on YouTube during which he throws a can of Galaxy Gas into a dumpster after telling audiences "the only way to do that Galaxy Gas sh*t without f***in' your brain up." SZA has also taken her thoughts to X, warning followers about the harmful effects nitrous oxide has on brain cells and expressing concerns about how Galaxy Gas is being mass marketed to black children.
Suspicious Marketing Tactics Used
Galaxy Gas uses some questionable marketing tactics to sell its product and make it appealing to young people, similarly to the tactics used by vaping companies like Juul. They market their nitrous oxide chargers as whipped cream chargers with fun flavors like mango smoothie and tropical punch. This makes the product seem harmless and downplays the risks. The product is also easy to buy online and in stores, often without any age checks, making it very appealing to younger audiences. Even though their website says it’s illegal to inhale the product, it’s clear that many people use it for that purpose.
The company’s website is clearly designed to attract teens and young adults with bright colors and a variety of flavored gas tanks, with an almost unnecessary range of available flavors. They also sell merchandise like t-shirts and colorful whipped cream dispensers, and have a rewards program where you can earn points for future purchases. This marketing strategy, as previously mentioned, is strongly similar to those used by vape, tobacco, and alcohol companies to attract young consumers. The easy availability of Galaxy Gas, both online and in local smoke shops, makes it a simple task for teens to get their hands on it without proper age verification.
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Why Is Galaxy Gas Legal?
Galaxy Gas is legal because it’s marketed and sold for legitimate culinary purposes, like whipped cream. Nitrous oxide, the main component, is commonly used in food preparation and medical settings — but since it’s not classified as a controlled substance under federal law, it’s not illegal to sell or possess it for these intended uses.
The recreational use of nitrous oxide, such as inhaling it to get high, is illegal in many places. Despite this, it’s easy for teens to get ahold of Galaxy Gas because it’s widely available online and in stores, often without strict age verification.
Is Galaxy Gas Addictive?
While nitrous oxide isn’t physically addictive like some drugs, it can lead to psychological dependence. People might start using Galaxy Gas to cope with stress, loneliness, or emotional issues, and over time, they may find it hard to stop. The brief, intense high it provides can make users want to inhale it repeatedly, creating a cycle of use that’s hard to break.
This pattern of repeated use can have serious health consequences, including brain and nerve damage, making it important to recognize the risks associated with its misuse.
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Is Your Child Abusing Galaxy Gas?
If you think your child might be abusing Galaxy Gas, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further harm. Look for signs like empty whipped cream canisters, small metal cartridges, or changes in behavior such as mood swings, confusion, or impaired coordination.
If you notice any of these signs, have an open and honest conversation with your child about the dangers of inhalant abuse. Approach the topic with empathy, creating a safe space for them to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
Signs of Abuse
Signs that your child might be abusing Galaxy Gas include finding empty whipped cream canisters or small metal cartridges around the house. You might also notice changes in their behavior, such as mood swings, confusion, or impaired coordination.
Other signs can include memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms like frostbite or burns around the nose, lips, or throat. Sudden laughter or giggling for no reason and withdrawal from social activities or friends can also be indicators of abuse.
Treatment Options
If you suspect your child is abusing Galaxy Gas, seeking professional help is crucial. Treatment options include medical detox, where withdrawal symptoms are managed under supervision, as well as residential treatment programs that provide comprehensive care in a supportive environment.
Outpatient programs are also available, offering flexible treatment options that allow your child to receive care while maintaining their daily responsibilities. Lastly, counseling and therapy can help address underlying issues and support long-term recovery.
Closing Thoughts on Galaxy Gas
Galaxy Gas poses significant risks, especially to teens who might be drawn to its easy availability and the allure of a quick high — and recognizing the signs of abuse early can make a big difference.
If you suspect your child is using Galaxy Gas, taking action now can make a significant difference in their health and future. Remember, early intervention can help teens realize the dangers of Galaxy Gas and break free from addiction, potentially preventing severe consequences such as brain and nerve damage, respiratory failure, heart attacks, and even sudden death.
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Would you like more information about Galaxy Gas? Reach out today.
Have Questions About Galaxy Gas? Call Us Today.
Inhalant misuse and addiction are serious issues with potentially fatal consequences. We understand the long-term effects of nitrous oxide abuse, and are here to help answer any questions you may have. Reach out to us at The Edge Treatment Center for support and guidance.
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If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, there is hope. Our team can guide you on your journey to recovery. Call us today.
Written by
Monty MontgomeryContent Writer
Reviewed by
Jeremy ArztChief Clinical Officer
Drug and Alcohol
Trends and Statistics
October 13, 2024
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Galaxy Gas, which contains nitrous oxide, can cause a quick, euphoric high by temporarily disrupting the central nervous system and reducing oxygen supply. This can lead to feelings of lightheadedness, laughter, and a sense of floating. However, it can also cause serious health issues like dizziness, fainting, and long-term brain and nerve damage.
Galaxy Gas has become popular among teens due to its easy availability and the quick, intense high it provides. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have also played a significant role in its popularity, with many viral videos showing people using the gas recreationally.
Galaxy Gas is legal to sell and possess for culinary purposes, such as whipping cream. However, using it recreationally to get high is illegal in many places. Despite this, it’s often easily accessible online and in stores without strict age verification.
Long-term use of Galaxy Gas can lead to serious health issues, including brain and nerve damage, memory problems, and impaired coordination. It can also cause respiratory issues and increase the risk of heart attacks and sudden death, especially when combined with other substances.
Look for signs like empty whipped cream canisters, small metal cartridges, and changes in behavior such as mood swings, confusion, or impaired coordination. Physical symptoms like frostbite around the nose, lips, or throat can also be indicators of abuse.
If you find your child using Galaxy Gas, it’s important to have an open and honest conversation with them about the dangers of inhalant abuse. Approach the topic with empathy and understanding, and consider seeking professional help to address the issue and support their recovery.
Educate your child about the dangers of inhalant abuse and the specific risks associated with Galaxy Gas. Monitor their online activity and social media use, and ensure that any whipped cream chargers in your home are used only for their intended culinary purposes. Open communication and setting clear boundaries can also help prevent misuse.