Singapore plans to list etomidate in vapes as illegal drug
The use of etomidate, typically mixed with vape juice in so-called K-pods, has been a source of concern for Singapore’s authorities
“Vaping, especially those that are laced with etomidate, is increasing. It is causing quite serious concern among agencies, including the Ministry of Home Affairs [MHA] and Ministry of Health [MOH],” he told reporters.
Recently, authorities randomly tested more than 100 vapes that were seized, and one-third were found to contain etomidate. Pods that contain vape juice mixed with etomidate are also known as K-pods.
Ong also noted that there had also been some deaths, including those arising from traffic accidents as well as unnatural ones, where etomidate was implicated, and investigations were ongoing.
Vapes, or e-vaporisers, are banned in Singapore. They are controlled and enforced under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sales) Act. Etomidate is a controlled substance under the Poisons Act.
Under these Acts, users of drug-laced pods may be fined, but that will change when etomidate is listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA).