Quick look: Nitrous oxide, known as “NOS” or “laughing gas,” is increasingly being misused in ways that pose serious health risks. Experts warn that inhaling the gas can lead to nerve damage, fainting and, in rare cases, death — especially with the rise of high-dose products marketed to young people.
Nitrous oxide, often called “NOS” or “laughing gas,” is appearing more frequently in headlines — and not for its medical use.
Amid growing concerns about misuse among young people, both the Orange County Board of Supervisors and the Santa Ana City Council have moved to ban its sale for recreational purposes. These steps are part of broader efforts to address the health risks associated with increasingly potent products that are sometimes infused with sweet, candy-like flavors.
To help families and schools make sense of the trend — and what they can do about it — OCDE Prevention Coordinator Stephan Lambert shared some insight and practical guidance.
What is nitrous oxide, and how is it being misused?
Nitrous oxide (N2O), often known as “NOS” or “laughing gas,” is a gas used during dental and medical procedures and for pressurizing whipped cream dispensers. While it has long been misused for the dizzy, relaxed feeling it induces, recent marketing changes have made it more widespread.
Until recently, it was mainly sold in small metal cartridges called “whippets,” which were misused by dispensing them into balloons and inhaling them. However, a new generation of products has emerged.
Brands like “Galaxy Gas” now package nitrous oxide in extremely large tanks with capacities as high as 3.3 liters each. One tank is said to contain 2,000 grams of nitrous oxide — roughly the equivalent of 250 whippets — and could produce more than 15 gallons of whipped cream if used as intended.
“These cylinders are being sold in smoke shops as well as online retailers, usually with no age verification,” Lambert said. “Troublingly, these products are being sold in sweet flavors like ‘Strawberry Splash’ and ‘Cotton Candy,’ which may appeal to youth.”
What are the health risks of nitrous oxide?
While nitrous oxide is often seen as a harmless novelty, it can pose serious health risks — especially in the high doses delivered by these newer products, Lambert says.
That’s because nitrous oxide displaces oxygen, reducing its availability to the brain. This can cause dizziness, fainting or, in rare cases, death. It also affects balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls, car crashes and other injuries.
Chronic or repeated use can damage the body’s ability to process vitamin B12, leading to nerve damage. This can lead to numbness, muscle weakness and even trouble walking. Heavy use may also cause dangerous blood clots and stroke, even in young people.
How can families talk to their children about NOS?
“Talking openly and honestly with your child is a proven strategy to help prevent them from experimenting with substance use,” Lambert says.
He suggests the following age-based tips to help guide conversations.
Younger children (ages 5–9): Keep it simple and tied to safety rules.
- “It is dangerous to eat, sniff or swallow things you don’t recognize.”
- “Some sprays and chemicals should only be used by grown-ups.”
- “We open windows to air out the room when cooking or using cleaners.”
Early adolescents (ages 10–13): Discuss specific risks and support healthy decision-making.
- “Breathing in chemicals that make you dizzy can damage your nerves and brain.”
- “Most kids your age don’t use alcohol or drugs like nitrous oxide.”
- “When you are stressed out, what is your favorite way to relax?”
Teens (ages 14–18): Focus on their context and emphasize independence and goals.
- “Did you hear about the student who crashed his car because of NOS? It reduces oxygen to your brain, which can make you dizzy or faint. It can damage your nerves and brain over time.”
- “Have you seen influencers or podcasters talking about these products? Why do you think companies make vapes and NOS in flavors like strawberry and cotton candy?”
- “I know your grades and soccer team are important to you. Injuries and legal problems could get in the way. If your friend offered you a NOS canister or balloon, what could you say?”
Where can families and schools find prevention resources?
OCDE’s Youth Substance Use prevention program, or YSU, has released a one-page resource for parents and caregivers that highlights the health risks of nitrous oxide misuse and ways to take action. Along with English, it’s available for sharing in a number of languages, including Spanish, Korean, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi and Vietnamese.
The YSU team is funded by the Orange County Health Care Agency to deliver prevention services for schools and youth-serving organizations in the cities of Garden Grove, Irvine, Orange, Santa Ana, Stanton, Tustin and Westminster. These no-cost services include:
- Standards-aligned classroom presentations for students
- Peer-to-peer education leadership opportunities
- Awareness workshops for parents and caregivers
- Professional development for teachers, counselors and other personnel
Services are available to all cities in Orange County through a network of regional providers.
For more information and resources, contact Stephan Lambert at slambert@ocde.us.