A small canister (usually 8 or 16g) of nitrous oxide
gas (N2O). Used officially in making whipped cream, but more often used recreationally to for its dissociative effects. If used properly and in moderation whippits are harmless. However, improper inhalation (e.
g. wearing a mask or putting a bag over one's
head) can lead to oxygen deprivation, and heavy use can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency. You'd have to be a complete
moron to put a bag over your
head in any situation, and the B12 deficiency is easily treated, so nitrous is a pretty safe drug.
Me: I knew someone whose 19 year old son died by using whippits. Apparently he put a plastic bag of the nitrous over his
head.
Someone else: What an
idiot.
Me: Yep, there's always someone who gives a
safe drug a bad name.