Why Is Pink Whip Trending? The Psychology Behind "Laughing Gas" and the Myths and Facts

By: dr. Danardi, Sp.KJ(K)

In recent times, the misuse of nitrous oxide (N₂O), also known as laughing gas or popularly known as Pink Whip, has become increasingly common, especially among young people. Initially used legally for medical and culinary purposes, this gas is now being abused by inhaling it for a brief euphoric sensation.

From an addiction perspective, the trend of the substance isn't just about the substance itself, but also about the combination of easy access, rapid effects, and a lifestyle, with minimal fear. Some of the triggers include:

Why Has This Gas “Exploded” Become a Trend Lately?

1. Easily Available and Underrated
   Nitrous oxide is widely known as a gas for culinary and medical purposes. Because it resembles an everyday product, many people assume it's harmless. The Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) has highlighted the phenomenon of nitrous oxide abuse among young people, noting that although the effects are brief, the risks can be long-term.
2. Quick Effects and Short Duration
   Substances with instant effects, such as a lightheaded feeling or brief euphoria, tend to spread quickly through social media. This characteristic aligns with the culture of fast-paced content consumption.
3. Environmental Influence and Normalization
   When use is seen as commonplace within a social circle, the risks are often perceived as small. In addiction psychology, this condition is known as the normalization of risky behavior, even though negative impacts can emerge unexpectedly.
4. Relatively Affordable
   Many people perceive use as light and risk-free because it is done briefly. This perception often leads to repeated use.
5. Misunderstanding the Source of Danger
   The focus of risk is not on specific brands, but on their misuse, namely inhalation for psychoactive effects.

Why Can Use Be Repeated and Difficult to Stop?

• Chasing Effects
  Because the effects last only a short time, users are compelled to repeat use to maintain the sensation. This can lead to tolerance.
• Escaping Emotional Distress
  Some individuals use these substances as a way to escape stress, anxiety, or social pressure.

The Most Common Myths vs. Facts

Myth 1: "It's safe, it's used in medical/dental settings."
Fact: It's safe when used by healthcare professionals, with measured doses, oxygen monitoring, and medical indications. When abused (inhaled for a high), the context changes completely: there's no dose control, no monitoring, and frequent repetition. The WHO also assesses the potential public health hazards of non-medical use of N₂O.

Myth 2: "It's not addictive because it's legal to sell."
Fact: Over-the-counter products aren't necessarily safe if used improperly. Many legal products remain dangerous if misused, such as glue or certain cough medicines. The Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) has also highlighted the misuse of nitrous oxide as a trend that poses health risks.

Myth 3: "It's not addictive, so it's relaxing."
Fact: For some people, nitrous oxide use can develop problematic patterns, such as the need for increasing doses, repeated use, and difficulty quitting even after experiencing effects. A WHO review noted the presence of effects that encourage relapse, as well as the presence of users who meet the criteria for a use disorder. Although it doesn't always cause dependence like other substances, nitrous oxide still has the potential for abuse in some people.

Myth 4: "It's safer if you use a balloon."
Fact: A balloon doesn't make it "safe." The main problems remain: replacing oxygen, the risk of hypoxia/fainting, and the tendency to repeat. In some cases, people find it easier to "gas" repeatedly because it feels convenient.

Myth 5: "The important thing is not to overdo it; if it's only occasionally, it's safe."
Fact: Risks are determined by many factors, such as dose, frequency, physical condition, and the circumstances in which it's used, such as in a confined space, alone, or combined with alcohol and other drugs. Because the effects are short-lived, occasional use can quickly escalate into repeated use.

Myth 6: "If you have tingling, just take a vitamin and it'll go away."
Fact: Neurological symptoms require medical evaluation. Nitrous oxide can interfere with vitamin B12 function and cause potentially severe neurological disorders; timely treatment is crucial.

Warning Signs of Use

Some early signs of problematic use include increased frequency and dosage, difficulty stopping use, concealing the habit, impaired school or work functioning, and use despite physical or emotional complaints.
If several of these signs begin to appear simultaneously, it is recommended to consult a professional immediately.

A More Effective Communication Approach

An empathetic and open approach is more helpful than a judgmental one. The goal is to open a discussion so that the individual does not feel pressured or need to hide their problems.

When to Seek Help

• Consult a psychiatrist or addiction services provider if use becomes difficult to control.
• Go to the emergency room if you experience fainting, shortness of breath, chest pain, or weakness.
• Call 911 or 911 for emergencies.

FAQ

What is Whip Pink?
Whip Pink is a popular term for products containing nitrous oxide (N₂O). This substance is legally used for medical and culinary purposes, but becomes dangerous when abused by inhaling it for euphoric effects.

Is nitrous oxide a drug?
Nitrous oxide is not classified as a narcotic, but it still has the potential for abuse. Use outside of medical or culinary indications can pose serious health risks and problematic use patterns.

Does using a balloon make it safer?
Using a balloon does not eliminate the risk. The main problems remain oxygen deprivation and the tendency to repeat use due to perceived convenience.

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