Michigan Logs 112 Nitrous Oxide Injuries, 48 Hospitalized as Whippet Use Climbs
Updated
Updated · Detroit Free Press · Jun 19
Michigan Logs 112 Nitrous Oxide Injuries, 48 Hospitalized as Whippet Use Climbs
2 articles · Updated · Detroit Free Press · Jun 19
Summary
Michigan recorded 112 known injuries from intentional nitrous oxide use from 2024 through May 2026, with 48 hospitalizations and 10 ICU cases, according to preliminary poison-center data.
Large 2- to 6-liter canisters sold at gas stations, convenience stores and smoke shops are driving heavier use, while colorful packaging, flavors and social-media promotion are widening appeal to young users.
Dr. Varun Vohra said inhaling nitrous oxide can disable the body’s use of vitamin B12, causing numbness, weakness, loss of coordination, hallucinations, blood clots and, in severe cases, paralysis or crashes while driving.
The surge has been building for years: Michigan ER visits tied to nitrous oxide jumped 757% from 10 cases in 2019 to 60 in 2023, EMS calls rose 420%, and first responders identified 14 deaths with involvement over that span.
Michigan tightened penalties in 2024 for inhalation devices and sales to minors, and the FDA warned in 2025 against inhaling the products, but Vohra said injuries keep rising and urged lawmakers to consider banning retail canister sales.