Galaxy Gas is the latest iteration of the popular drug known as whippets, which is simply nitrous oxide. This substance is commonly used by doctors and dentists as a mild anesthetic during procedures. Nitrous oxide is also used in kitchens to create foams and whipped creams, a claim that Galaxy Gas noted on their website. One major reason younger people have easy access to this drug is that it can be bought with minimal restrictions.
Tighter regulations should be implemented to who can purchase it and under what circumstances. Additionally, nitrous oxide is used in kitchens to create foams and whipped creams, a claim that Galaxy Gas noted on their website.
Although whippets, or laughing gas, are nothing new, this version of nitrous oxide is packaged in colorful cylinders marketed as whipped cream chargers, featuring enticing flavors like “mango smoothie” and “vanilla cupcake.” These vibrant canisters are meant for “culinary use only,” but younger audiences have been huffing Galaxy Gas, leading to scrutiny online.
This type of marketing is not unprecedented; there have been numerous instances of companies targeting younger consumers. For example, newer styles of vapes, which come in a variety of flavors and boast appealing electronic designs, with some even having built-in games into the devices. Galaxy Gas employs similar marketing strategies to attract younger and more impressionable audiences.
While Galaxy Gas is just one of many nitrous oxide brands, it has gained particularly negative attention on social media due to videos showcasing young people inhaling the gas.
Whippets work by inhibiting NMDA receptors, resulting in an anesthetic effect. Nitrous oxide also triggers the release of endogenous opioids that mimic the effects of morphine and activate GABAA receptors. In the U.S., purchasing nitrous oxide is largely legal, although some states, like Arizona and California, have enacted laws prohibiting sales to anyone under 18. Louisiana has become the first state to fully ban the retail sale of nitrous oxide. Young users often have a lower perception of risk, making the “fun” packaging all the more enticing.
While irregular use typically does not cause severe damage, repeated inhalation can lead to symptoms such as “numbness, tingling in the arms and legs, and weakness,” according to Dr. Sarah MacLean, a professor at La Trobe University.
The company behind Galaxy Gas, founded in 2021, states on its website that its products should be used strictly for culinary purposes. A spokesperson expressed concern about recent reports and social media posts of individuals misusing their products, saying they were, “deeply concerned about the recent news reports and social media posts of individuals illegally misusing our products. Both our terms of use and conditions of sale strictly prohibit unlawful use, misuse or appeal to children.” However, it is evident that customers continue to find ways to abuse these products, yet the company has not changed their branding at all. They continue to offer sweet and fruity flavors while plastering the canisters with vibrant colors.
Galaxy Gas being sold in smoke shops suggests that the company understands the demand for this product, despite concerns regarding its misuse, and still continues to market it to younger individuals. There should be regulations to limit the sales to those that are abusing it.
