inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Head of the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM), Taruna Ikrar, stated that his agency and the Indonesian National Police (INP) are taking firm action against the illegal distribution of nitrous oxide (N2O) gas branded as Baby Whip, sold online, considering that the gas is only for medical use.
Taruna stated that this effort is to protect Indonesia's younger generation, as the product targets teenagers and young adults. He stated that N2O abuse not only endangers physical health but also mental health. The illegal distribution is a concern, he said, given that its misuse is suspected of causing fatalities.
"The BPOM has issued Circular Letter Number 2 of 2026 concerning Provisions for the Production, Importation, Registration, and Distribution of the Food Additive Nitrous Monoxide, on February 27, 2026. According to this circular, nitrous oxide gas packaged as Baby Whip, or other similar products, is not included in the food additive group," explained Taruna on Thursday (4/9/2026).
According to the Minister of Health's Decree No. HK.01.07/MENKES/1199/2025, medical gases do not have a distribution permit because they are only used in healthcare facilities, not distributed to the public.
Taruna explained that N2O is a product of ammonia fumes that have been developed and converted into N2O, or ammonium. N2O is used as an anesthetic, to make patients feel drowsy and relieve anxiety before surgery.
However, he said, the gas is used irresponsibly by people to distract themselves from problems, given that it can cause euphoria and sedation. This is the reason it is called "laughing gas."
In the long term, he said, abuse can lead to dependence on the substance due to its calming effects.
"And it can have even more serious consequences, especially if combined with substances in unintended environments at high doses, causing respiratory distress or hypoxia, which can ultimately lead to death," he explained.
He mentioned that many teenagers and young adults use these products, and they are widely distributed in various major cities in Indonesia.
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