Nitrous Oxide Use Linked to Rising Deaths

Nitrous oxide, a common sedative sometimes used recreationally, is becoming increasingly dangerous. Recent research indicates that deaths associated with this substance, often referred to as laughing gas or whippits, have surged in the U.S. over the last 15 years.

A team from the University of Mississippi and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign analyzed mortality data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Their findings reveal that reported deaths due to nitrous oxide have skyrocketed by about 500% from 2010 to 2023. While the overall number of fatalities remains relatively low, the data suggests that the issue of recreational nitrous oxide usage is escalating.

The researchers highlighted the need for better public health measures, stating that their results point to an urgent requirement for improved monitoring and prevention strategies. This was detailed in a paper that was published in JAMA Network Open.

Nitrous oxide is commonly utilized in medical settings as a sedative and anesthetic—many people might associate it with trips to the dentist. Additionally, it’s frequently found in whipped cream canisters, making it easily accessible for recreational users seeking a quick, euphoric high. This has led to the slang terms “whippets” or “whippits” becoming popular.

Past studies have also suggested an increase in nitrous oxide misuse in the U.S., but the full extent of its deadly consequences remains largely unknown. Although the euphoric effects are generally short-lived, excessive use can cause severe health complications, including oxygen deprivation and even heart attacks. Long-term use may deplete the body’s vitamin B-12, resulting in paralysis or lasting neurological issues.

In their analysis, the researchers found that nitrous oxide-related deaths climbed from 23 in 2010 among individuals aged 15 to 74, to 156 in 2023—a substantial rise. The increase was notable until about 2018, after which the numbers stabilized.

According to the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health, at least 13 million Americans have experimented with nitrous oxide recreationally at some point. The study suggests that the booming availability of nitrous oxide products, often marketed as culinary items, has probably fueled this trend. Many of these items, sold online or in stores, carry eye-catching names like “Galaxy Gas.” Viral challenges on platforms like TikTok have contributed to this culture, although some efforts have been made to curb this activity.

The researchers emphasize the need for increased education regarding the risks of nitrous oxide misuse, especially for younger populations. It’s crucial to address this growing concern effectively.

Study co-author Andrew Yockey, an assistant professor of public health at the University of Mississippi, remarked, “This issue isn’t confined to one location; it’s pervasive. National attention is warranted. The numbers may seem small now, but they are escalating rapidly.”

Additonally, the Food and Drug Administration has observed a rise in negative events related to nitrous oxide. In early 2025, they issued a warning urging the public to refrain from using these products recreationally, which was later updated to include more brands to avoid.