MDHHS warns of serious health risks linked to recreational nitrous oxide use

Growing misuse sending more Michigan residents to the hospital 

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is warning residents about the serious health risks linked to recreational nitrous oxide use, also known as “laughing gas,” whippets,” “balloons,” “Galaxy Gas” or “NOS.” 

Nitrous oxide has medical and dental uses and is also sold for culinary purposes. But when used recreationally – especially repeatedly or in large amounts – it can lead to anxiety, depression, mood changes, memory problems, confusion, paranoia, anemia, blood clots, shortness of breath and injuries related to impaired judgement or loss of consciousness. Injuries can also result from improper use of nitrous oxide cans or chargers, including frostbite and asphyxiation. 

These products are widely available in grocery stores, smoke shops, vape stores, gas stations, convenience stores and online. Some are sold in colorful packaging or flavors that can make them seem harmless.  

“Because these products are often sold openly and may be marketed as legal or low risk, people may underestimate the real dangers,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Misuse of these products is on the rise, and today’s larger canisters and prolonged use are leading to more severe health effects. We want Michiganders, especially parents of teens, to recognize what these products look like, understand the dangers and seek help early.” 

Over the past several decades, recreational nitrous oxide use has shifted significantly, and Michigan continues to see more frequent and more severe outcomes. What was once more limited in scope during the 1990s has expanded into a much larger public health concern due to the widespread availability of larger, high-volume canisters. These products allow for prolonged use and higher exposure, which increase the risk of neurological harm and other serious health consequences. 

“It is deeply concerning that nitrous oxide – a drug we use in monitored medical settings to provide safe, comfortable care for children and other vulnerable patients – is being sold and used as a recreational substance,” said Dr. Matt Dellaquila, president of the Michigan Society of Anesthesiologists. “When used without trained supervision, what’s marketed as harmless fun can quickly become dangerous and even life-threatening.” 

Data from the Michigan Poison and Drug Information Center (MiPDC) show a sharp increase in nitrous oxide-related health emergencies in recent years. From 2019 through 2023, Michigan recorded 144 poison center cases, 132 emergency department visits and 192 emergency medical service responses involving nitrous oxide. Cases increased from 10 in 2019 to 47 in 2025, with cases in 2026 expected to surpass this number.  

Of the 112 cases identified between 2024 and May 2026, 34% required admission to a hospital and 7% required admission to an intensive care unit. Nearly half of all reported cases resulted in medically significant outcomes, including numbness, tingling in the hands or feet, trouble walking and balance issues, confusion and anxiety and passing out. 

“Recreational nitrous oxide misuse is rising and causing serious harm, including neurological injuries, blood-clotting events and psychiatric harm from chronic, repeated use,” said Varun Vohra, senior academic director of the Michigan Poison & Drug Information Center at the Wayne State University School of Medicine. “Large, flavored cylinders marketed toward young people make heavy binge use easier and put users at increased risk of harm. Parents should be aware of these risks and talk with their teens.” 

Recreational nitrous oxide may be sold as:  

• Small metal chargers or “whippets.” 

• Large-flavored canisters or tanks. 

• Balloons filled with nitrous oxide gas. 

People may not connect symptoms to nitrous oxide right away, especially if use is ongoing. Warning signs can include: 

• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.  

• Trouble walking, balance problems or unexpected falls.  

• Confusion, mood changes, anxiety or feeling “not like yourself.” 

• Passing out, trouble breathing or injuries after use.  

Nitrous oxide intoxication can impair judgment, coordination and reaction time. MDHHS urges residents not to drive after using nitrous oxide and not to use it alone. 

Anyone who notices concerning symptoms after using nitrous oxide should stop immediately and seek medical care. If you believe someone is having a medical emergency, call 911. 

Residents and health care providers can contact MiPDC anytime at 800-222-1222 for questions and support. 

Comprehensive substance use disorder services are available throughout Michigan. Learn more about treatment and recovery resources at Michigan.gov/SUD. 

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