Whippets – a form of inhalant drug – have risen in popularity over the past few years, partly as a response to the increasing scrutiny around other recreational substances. However, many people are not aware of the potential dangers and negative effects of using whippets.
A recent study by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) identified whippets as one of the most commonly used inhalants among Americans 12 and older – with nearly 13 million individuals reporting misusing nitrous oxide at least once.
So what should you know about whippets – and how can you or someone you know get help from a dependency on them? Read on to learn more about whippets and the risks involved.
What Are Whippets?
Whippets, also known as “whip-its,” “whippits,” “nossies,” “hippie crack,” or simply “nos,” refer to the recreational use of nitrous oxide (N2O) gas.
The term “whippets” comes from the small metal canisters or cartridges containing the gas, commonly used as whipped cream chargers in the food industry.
When used recreationally, people inhale the gas directly from these canisters or from balloons filled with the gas to experience a short-lived high.
Nitrous oxide has been used for various purposes since the 19th century, including as a mild anesthetic in dentistry, where it’s often called “laughing gas.” However, its recreational use has become increasingly popular among teenagers and young adults.
While nitrous oxide has legitimate medical and industrial uses, its recreational use can be hazardous and potentially life-threatening – causing many to become dependent on the drug.
How Are Whippets Used?
The recreational use of whippets typically involves one of two methods:
Direct Inhalation
Users may inhale the gas directly from the cartridge using a cracker, a small device designed to puncture the canister and release the gas. This brings the user a brief, intense high that can last anywhere from a few seconds to a couple of minutes.
With extended use, users may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting. This is due to the oxygen deprivation caused by inhaling nitrous oxide.
Balloon/Bag Method
Another method of whippets involves transferring the gas from the cartridge into a balloon or plastic bag and inhaling it through the mouth or nose. This method allows for a longer period of inhalation, resulting in a more prolonged high.
However, this method also carries risks as the compressed gas can cause serious damage to the lungs if inhaled incorrectly. Using bags or balloons increases the risk of suffocation as they can easily cover the nose, and those who are intoxicated may not have the coordination to remove them quickly.
But Why Is It Called “Whippets”?
The name “whippets” is partly due to the way that some inhale through a whipped cream dispenser – filling the canister with nitrous oxide instead of cream or inhaling directly from whipped cream cans purchased from stores. The name can also refer to the sound made by the gas escaping from the canister.
What Are The Effects of Whippets?
Short-Term Effects
The effects of inhaling nitrous oxide are typically felt within seconds and usually last only a few minutes. Those who have engaged with whippets often experience a varying degree of dissociation, euphoria, and relaxation. Some may also experience:
- A quick, intense feeling of euphoria
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Feelings of floating or dissociation
- Laughter or giggling (hence the nickname “laughing gas”)
- Distorted perceptions of sound
- Mild hallucinations
- Numbness in the body
- Loss of coordination
- Slurred speech
While these effects might seem harmless or even appealing to some, problems arise when impaired judgment leads some to combine whippets with other substances or activities, such as driving.
Potential Long-Term Effects
Regular or heavy use of whippets can lead to more serious, long-lasting effects. Prolonged use can cause vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to nerve damage and neurological problems. Chronic use can also result in:
- Memory loss and cognitive impairment
- Weakened immune system
- Numbness in extremities
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- In severe cases, psychosis or Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a degenerative brain disorder
- Liver and kidney damage
- Heart dysfunction
- Bone marrow suppression
- Increased risk of depression and anxiety
Are Whippets Legal?
The legality of nitrous oxide is a gray area – often varying by jurisdiction. In many places, including the United States, nitrous oxide itself is not illegal. It has legitimate uses in medical settings, food preparation, and various industries.
However, in many regions, it is illegal to sell nitrous oxide to individuals who intend to inhale it recreationally or to inhale it for recreational purposes.
Some states have implemented age restrictions on purchasing nitrous oxide canisters, similar to regulations on alcohol or tobacco – a legal gray area can lead to misconceptions about the safety and acceptability of whippets.
Warning Signs of Whippet Use
Recognizing the signs of whippet abuse can be challenging due to the short-lived nature of its effects. But if you are concerned that someone you know is struggling with whippet abuse, here are a few warning signs to look out for:
- Presence of whippet paraphernalia (small metal canisters, balloons, cracking devices)
- Unexplained sore throat or hoarseness
- Sores or rashes around the mouth and nose
- Sudden changes in mood or behavior
- Decreased performance at school or work
- Loss of appetite and unusual sleep patterns
Finding Help and Support
Preventing whippet misuse starts with education. Understanding the risks and dispelling misconceptions about safety is key.
At United Recovery Project, we understand the complexities of substance abuse and addiction. Our team of experienced professionals is here to provide compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s needs. We offer a range of treatment options, from detox to long-term recovery support, all in a supportive, judgment-free environment.
If you or a loved one is struggling with whippet use or any form of substance abuse, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. At United Recovery Project, we’re here to guide you on your journey to recovery, offering the compassionate care and expert treatment you deserve.
Your health and well-being are precious. Don’t let the momentary high of whippets jeopardize your future. Take the first step towards a healthier, substance-free life today.
