Substance abuse can come in many forms, and problematic substances have become more accessible than ever. More and more over-the-counter (OTC) household products are finding their way onto the list of abused substances that can lead to addiction. Inhalants that create a high when inhaled are among this ever-growing list. Doctors use nitrous oxide gas under pressure as a sedative, and it’s also found in items like whipped cream canisters and chargers. This is where the term “whippets” is derived from.
If you fear that a loved one is struggling with drug use, get them help as soon as possible. Contact The Right Step today at 17135283709 for more information on our substance abuse treatment options in Texas.
What Are Whippets?
A whippet is a small metal canister of nitrous oxide under pressure. Nitrous oxide is used in easily accessible items like store-bought whipped cream and restaurant-grade whipped cream chargers. When using whippets, individuals inhale nitrous oxide directly from canisters filled only with the gas. This practice, known as “huffing,” provides a quick high. You can also inhale it by expelling the gas into a plastic bag or a balloon.
Whippets can also be referred to as “galaxy gas.” Culinary brand Galaxy Gas produces restaurant-grade whipped cream canisters, and the term has become synonymous with nitrous oxide abuse.
What Are the Dangers of Nitrous Oxide Abuse?
Whippets are one of a variety of inhalants. Many household products contain inhalants. In addition to whipped cream canisters, those seeking a high may also try to inhale gas from lighter fluid, glue, spray paint, air freshener, and even markers. Because they’re so accessible, whippets and other similar products can be a problem—especially for young adults experimenting with drugs. Whippets can be a gateway drug as young adults try huffing through one of these items and then become addicted to the high and try even more dangerous drugs.
The dangers of inhalants are many, including how they affect the amount of oxygen one takes in, which can lead to suffocation. Additional risks of inhalant use include:
- Compromised coordination
- Fainting spells
- Severe headaches or migraines
- A state of intoxication
- Depression
- Memory issues
- Nerve damage
- Muscle weakness
- Seizures
- Breathing difficulty
- Unconsciousness
- Hearing loss
- Heart attack
Using large amounts of inhalants, as well as prolonged use, can lead to suffocation or unconsciousness that can be fatal. As it directly affects oxygen intake, you risk your body and essential vital organs. Humans shouldn’t consume the chemicals used in nitrous oxide in this manner or at all. In the medical field, professionals use nitrous oxide minimally and only for specific scenarios at a given time.
If you’re concerned that you or a loved one is using whippets or another inhalant, it’s essential you know the dangers and get help as soon as possible.
Contact The Right Step to Get Started on Substance Abuse Treatment Today
Because of the easy accessibility of inhalants and the lack of education about the dangers of their misuse, many young adults fall victim to the effects of using them recreationally to get high. Misusing an uncontrolled substance like this has a lot of unknowns, and this is why it’s so dangerous and can put users at serious health risks. Inhalant use—like using whippets—should be treated as seriously as any other substance use disorder (SUD).
To stop using inhalants as a drug, get professional help to manage the withdrawal and overcome addictive habits. Call the caring treatment team at The Right Step today at 17135283709 or complete the online form to learn about treatment options for yourself or someone you care about.
