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Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025

Are nitrous oxide ‘whippets’ legal in Nevada?

Kiara Adams, The Nevada Independent
yes

Nitrous oxide “whippets,” canisters of laughing gas inhaled to get high, can be legally purchased in Nevada.

Nevada is one of 32 states that makes recreational use of inhalants a misdemeanor, but does not have any explicit laws restricting the sale and possession of nitrous oxide canisters. 

Nitrous oxide has federally legal, non-recreational applications in medical anesthesia and food preparation. The latter facilitates a legal loophole wherein manufacturers can label canisters for use in whipped cream dispensers — even though the products often advertise flavors and colorful designs.

When inhaled, nitrous oxide acts on various neurotransmitters to produce short-lived euphoria, relaxation, pain relief and dissociation. Chronic recreational use can cause neurological damage, cardiovascular problems and psychiatric issues such as hallucinations, psychosis, delusions, paranoia and depression.

A 2025 study found a nearly 600% increase in deaths from the drug between 2010 and 2023.

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The Nevada Independent is a nonpartisan, nonprofit news and opinion website founded in 2017 by veteran political journalist and commentator Jon Ralston. The site and its supporting channels are focused on ethical, unbiased and transparent journalism. In general, we aim to gather and disseminate important public information and increase civic engagement. We are supported by corporate donations, memberships, event ticket sales and sponsorships and foundation grants. We disclose all our members and donors. Donors have no influence over our content, ever. The Nevada Independent is the dba for Nevada News Bureau, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 2010 by Elizabeth Thompson, who now serves as one of The Nevada Independent's managing directors and its Editor.

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