BPOM Cracks Down on Illegal Distribution of N2O to Protect Indonesian Youth
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Head of the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM), Taruna Ikrar, stated that his agency, along with the Indonesian National Police (Polri), has taken firm action against the illegal distribution of dinitrogen monoxide (N2O) gas branded as Baby Whip, sold online, given that the gas is only for medical use.
Taruna said in Jakarta on Thursday that the effort is aimed at saving Indonesia’s younger generation, as the product targets teenagers and young adults. Misuse of N2O, he said, not only endangers physical health but also mental well-being. The illegal circulation has drawn attention, he noted, as its misuse is suspected to have caused fatalities.
“The BPOM has issued Circular Letter No. 2 of 2026 on the Provisions for the Production, Importation, Registration, and Distribution of the Food Additive Dinitrogen Monoxide, dated 27 February 2026. Referring to that circular, dinitrogen oxide gas packaged as Baby Whip or similar products does not fall under the category of food additives,” he said.
Taruna explained that, according to the Minister of Health’s Decree No. HK.01.07/MENKES/1199/2025, medical gas does not have a distribution permit because its use is limited to healthcare facilities and not distributed to the public.
Nevertheless, he said, irresponsible individuals use the gas to escape thoughts of problems, as it can cause euphoria and sedation. This is why the gas is known as ‘laughing gas’.
In the long term, he said, misuse can lead to dependency on the substance. Not because the substance itself is addictive, he clarified, but due to its calming effects.
“And it can have even more severe impacts, especially if combined with other substances in inappropriate spaces with high doses, causing respiratory issues or hypoxia, and ultimately leading to death,” he said.
His agency, together with Polri, conducted an enforcement operation at a residential property located on Jalan Kapuk, Gang Kebon Jahe, Cengkareng Subdistrict, West Jakarta, DKI Jakarta.
The residential property is suspected of being used as a facility for the distribution and storage of Baby Whip, equipment, and packaging materials, with sales conducted online.
Among the evidence found were 51 pieces of 2.2-litre N2O Baby Whip, 5 pieces of empty 2.2-litre N2O Baby Whip gas cylinders, and 3 boxes of nozzles as aids for using Baby Whip.
The case is being processed legally for alleged violations of the production or distribution of pharmaceutical preparations and medical devices that do not meet requirements.
The perpetrators, he said, will face sanctions in accordance with applicable laws, such as practising pharmacy without expertise related to pharmaceutical preparations as stipulated in Article 436 paragraph 1 in conjunction with Article 145 paragraph 1 of Law No. 17 of 2023 on Health.
“Based on those regulations, the perpetrators can be sentenced to a maximum of 12 years’ imprisonment and/or a fine of up to Rp5 billion,” he said.