Latest news with #etomidate
CNA
a day ago
- Health
- CNA
CNA Explains: What to know about etomidate, the drug Singapore plans to make illegal
SINGAPORE: An anaesthetic agent that has been found in vapes will soon be listed by Singapore as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said on Sunday (Jul 20). The substance, called etomidate, was found during recent random testing in a third of the more than 100 vapes seized by the authorities. Vape products laced with etomidates are called K-pods. The use of vapes, especially those that are laced with etomidate, is increasing, Mr Ong said. E-vaporisers are banned and controlled under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sales) Act. "But today, e-vaporisers are no longer just used for the delivery of nicotine, Mr Ong added. "They are being used to deliver a range of substances and what we are seeing is the delivery of etomidate. That is a serious problem." The minister warned that consuming etomidate is "very damaging" and urged those consuming etomidate-laced vapes to give it up before the "law catches up" with them. What is etomidate, exactly? Etomidate is a short-acting agent administered intravenously to induce sedation for patients in surgery. It can also be used in certain medical processes such as intubation. Adjunct Associate Professor Puah Ser Hon from Tan Tock Seng Hospital explained: "It has a very fast onset. It doesn't affect the blood pressure too much and it is quite a stable agent." However, this is within the medical context, when etomidate is used in calculated doses and is monitored by doctors and nurses who are trained to use it, the senior consultant added. Adj Assoc Prof Puah is the head of the hospital's department of respiratory and critical care medicine. What are its effects? Used outside a controlled medical environment, etomidate is "extremely dangerous". Dr Lee Chuen Peng, a respiratory specialist from private clinic The Respiratory Practice, said that vaping in general can lead to a condition known as Evali, short for E-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury. For those who are asthmatic, a single exposure can cause them to have an asthma attack, which can be life-threatening. Most commonly, however, etomidate is known for its suppression of adrenal glands, Dr Lee added. "It can shut down your adrenal glands that are critical for producing certain stress hormones like cortisol. This suppression can last for a few days and leave your body unable to handle stress." Assistant Professor Sewa Duu Wen, a senior consultant specialising in respiratory and critical care medicine at Singapore General Hospital, said that inhaling etomidate can reduce anxiety levels for a short period of time but the feeling passes quickly. "They will need to use it several times to achieve the same level of sensation," he added, pointing to its addictive property. When its effects start to wear off, users may deal with withdrawals such as increased anxiety and agitation. They may also get hallucinations and fall into a dissociative state. "This disassociated state can be quite disturbing and can sometimes lead to certain actions that the user didn't intend to do, and that's where the potential of them causing self-harm may occur," Asst Prof Sewa said. Dr Tan Sheng Neng, a senior consultant psychiatrist from The Safety Net, a private psychiatric practice, agreed that the fast-acting nature of etomidate can give users a "good feeling", leading users to rely on it as a coping mechanism. What are the long-term dangers? Prolonged use of etomidate can affect the adrenal gland's production of hormones released in response to stress. "It becomes a vicious circle," Dr Tan said, adding that users may be more susceptible to depression or anxiety. Adj Assoc Prof Puah, who also leads the National Healthcare Group's Respiratory Health Steering Committee Smoking Cessation Workgroup, said that it is still early to be certain about the effects of the long-term use of etomidate, but what they are seeing now is "already worrying". Even without etomidate, vapes and nicotine can stunt brain growth and cause attention issues. "You add etomidate to that, you add all sorts of illegal substances to these pods, you can imagine that the effects are double, triple, even 10 times," he added. "Why do we want to wait till we have information and act when it's too late?" Giving an example of another negative effect, Asst Prof Sewa said that the prolonged use of etomidate can suppress the vape user's ability to produce hormones essential in preventing low blood pressure or low sugar count. "It can lead to an adrenal crisis, where the patient may go into seizures or even coma," he warned, adding that there have been reports of such cases in patients who have abused the drug for a long time and in large doses. How can one overcome addiction to etomidate? Dr Munidasa Winslow, a senior consultant psychiatrist at private clinic Promises Healthcare, said that people who use etomidate should know that they can get help and recover. "Substance use is rarely just about the drug. It is often tied to deeper emotional or psychological roots," he said. Users who find themselves wanting to seek help should start by talking to someone they trust. After that, they should speak to a qualified healthcare professional. "Avoid the instinct to quit abruptly on your own," he advised. Etomidate is a potent sedative and its misuse can have unpredictable and potentially dangerous effects. Depending on how often it is used, stopping suddenly might lead to withdrawal symptoms and may increase the risk of relapse. Dr Winslow also said that recovery must be approached with a plan, for example, through therapy or a support group. "What is more important is understanding why it became a crutch in the first place, and how to replace that with healthier, more sustainable ways to cope." What are other jurisdictions doing about it? Across Asia, some governments have stepped up regulation on etomidate. The authorities in China officially placed etomidate under control in October 2023, the Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission stated. More recently, Hong Kong classified etomidate – known commonly as "space oil" there – under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance in February. Under the ordinace, anyone found in possession or consumption of the substance is subject to a maximum penalty of seven years' jail and a fine of HK$1 million (S$163,400). How does Singapore's move fit with its overall approach to vaping and drug use? Assistant Professor Yvette van der Eijk from the National University of Singapore Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health said that classifying etomidate as an illegal drug will give the authorities greater leverage to curb its misuse in vaping devices. In Singapore, all offenders caught for the purchase, use and possession of vapes, or e-vaporisers, are now referred to the Health Science Authority and subject to a fine of up to S$2,000 (about US$1,560). Etomidate is a controlled substance under the Poisons Act. However, once it is listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act, people who consume it will be treated "no differently" from those who consume hard drugs and narcotics such as cannabis and cocaine, Mr Ong said. This means that anyone caught using etomidate will be subject to supervision, have to undergo mandatory rehabilitation and may also be committed to a drug rehabilitation centre. Repeat offenders will be prosecuted and may be jailed for at least a year. Asst Prof van der Eijk said: "This move not only disrupts the supply and demand for K-pods, but also reinforces Singapore's zero-tolerance approach to emerging forms of substance abuse." She also said that the move will raise awareness on the significant health risks associated with drug-containing vapes.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
Plans to list etomidate as illegal drug: Ong Ye Kung, China denies link to espionage group: Singapore live news
Singapore's Health and Home Affairs Ministries are working to list etomidate, which is being abused via e-vaporisers, under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA), Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said on Sunday (20 July). This paves the way for abusers and traffickers of Kpods – vapes containing etomidate – to be treated in the same way as those who abuse or traffic drugs like nimetazepam (Erimin-5), with mandatory rehabilitation and jail time for repeat offenders. Currently, etomidate is listed under the Poisons Act. Under this law, abusers face only a fine. Sellers face possible jail time of up to two years. Ong said this will be done in the coming weeks. He added that it will be an interim measure until further changes can be made to the law to tackle the vaping scourge in Singapore. Read more about why there are plans to list etomidate under the MDA. Typhoon Wipha toppled trees and caused major flight disruptions Sunday (20 July) in Hong Kong and at some nearby airports in China as it moved west off the southern coast of the country. Earlier on Sunday morning, the Hong Kong Observatory issued a hurricane signal No. 10, its highest warning. Find out more about Typhoon Wipha, which was later downgraded to a severe tropical storm. Read more in our live blog below, including the latest local and international news and updates: China denies link to espionage group accused of attacking Singapore critical infrastructure The Chinese embassy in Singapore has refuted claims that an espionage group accused of performing cyberattacks on Singapore's critical infrastructure was linked to China. In a Facebook post published over the weekend, the Chinese embassy said such claims were "groundless smears and accusations". "The embassy would like to reiterate that China is firmly against and cracks down all forms of cyberattacks in accordance with law. China does not encourage, support or condone hacking activities," it wrote on Saturday (19 July). MOH, MHA working to list etomidate as illegal drug: Ong Ye Kung Singapore's Health and Home Affairs Ministries are working to list etomidate, which is being abused via e-vaporisers, under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA), Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said on Sunday (20 July). This paves the way for abusers and traffickers of Kpods – vapes containing etomidate – to be treated in the same way as those who abuse or traffic drugs like nimetazepam (Erimin-5), with mandatory rehabilitation and jail time for repeat offenders. Currently, etomidate is listed under the Poisons Act. Under this law, abusers face only a fine. Sellers face possible jail time of up to two years. Ong said this will be done in the coming weeks. He added that it will be an interim measure until further changes can be made to the law to tackle the vaping scourge in Singapore. Read more about why there are plans to list etomidate under the MDA. SCDF rescues 2 workers stranded on gondola dangling outside Raffles City Tower Two workers were rescued after the gondola they were on tipped over and was suspended almost vertically outside Raffles City Tower on Monday (21 July). The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said that it responded to the height rescue incident, between the 28th and 29th floors of the building, at about 11.20am. Both workers were assessed by a paramedic and taken to Raffles Hospital in a stable condition, SCDF added. A Raffles City Singapore spokesperson said initial checks showed that both workers did not have any injuries. The workers, who were employed by the building's contractor, were carrying out routine facade resealant works when there was a sudden change in weather at 11.20am. An immediate stop-work order was issued. But while the gondola was being retracted, it tilted to one side. Joint Singapore-Malaysia emergency response exercise on Tuas Second Link on Wednesday Motorists using the Tuas Second Link, take note. There will be a joint Singapore-Malaysia chemical spill emergency response exercise on Wednesday (23 July) from 5am to 2pm. In a statement, the National Environment Agency (NEA) said, "During the period of the exercise, all three lanes on the Singapore to Malaysia-bound carriageway on the Tuas Second Link will be closed to vehicular traffic. Motorists travelling towards Malaysia will be diverted to a lane on the opposite carriageway instead. Motorists should plan their journey in advance and closely follow the traffic marshals' directions on site. "Where possible, motorists are advised to avoid the Tuas Second Link when the exercise is ongoing and use the Woodlands Checkpoint during this period. Motorists are also advised to tune in to the Singapore radio stations for traffic updates." "The exercise will simulate the emergency response to a multi-vehicle collision along the Tuas Second Link involving trucks carrying chemicals. The public is advised not to be alarmed," the NEA added. ComfortDelGro to discipline driver who threw relative's wheelchair out of taxi Taxi operator ComfortDelGro said it will discipline one of its drivers, after an incident involving the driver appearing to forcefully dump a passenger's wheelchair on a pavement on 18 July. Responding to media queries, a spokesperson said on Sunday (20 July) that the company has launched an investigation into the matter. The spokesperson noted the driver's actions were 'unacceptable and do not reflect the professional standards we uphold'. In an updated statement, ComfortDelGro said the incident arose from a personal dispute between the driver and two family members she was ferrying. Find out more about what happened with the ComfortDelGro taxi. Typhoon Wipha causes damage, disrupt flights, before weakening to severe tropical storm Typhoon Wipha toppled trees and caused major flight disruptions Sunday (20 July) in Hong Kong and at some nearby airports in China as it moved west off the southern coast of the country. Earlier on Sunday morning, the Hong Kong Observatory issued a hurricane signal No. 10, its highest warning. Airports in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Zhuhai and the casino hub of Macao canceled or postponed flights for most of the day, according to their websites. Hong Kong grounded at least 400 flights, affecting around 80,000 passengers, broadcaster RTHK said. Some high-speed train services were also suspended. The typhoon stayed just offshore until about 6 pm, when it made landfall in a coastal area of Taishan city in Guangdong province, China's National Meteorological Center said. It then weakened to a severe tropical storm with maximum sustained winds of 108 kph. The Chinese embassy in Singapore has refuted claims that an espionage group accused of performing cyberattacks on Singapore's critical infrastructure was linked to China. In a Facebook post published over the weekend, the Chinese embassy said such claims were "groundless smears and accusations". "The embassy would like to reiterate that China is firmly against and cracks down all forms of cyberattacks in accordance with law. China does not encourage, support or condone hacking activities," it wrote on Saturday (19 July). Singapore's Health and Home Affairs Ministries are working to list etomidate, which is being abused via e-vaporisers, under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA), Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said on Sunday (20 July). This paves the way for abusers and traffickers of Kpods – vapes containing etomidate – to be treated in the same way as those who abuse or traffic drugs like nimetazepam (Erimin-5), with mandatory rehabilitation and jail time for repeat offenders. Currently, etomidate is listed under the Poisons Act. Under this law, abusers face only a fine. Sellers face possible jail time of up to two years. Ong said this will be done in the coming weeks. He added that it will be an interim measure until further changes can be made to the law to tackle the vaping scourge in Singapore. Read more about why there are plans to list etomidate under the MDA. SCDF rescues 2 workers stranded on gondola dangling outside Raffles City Tower Two workers were rescued after the gondola they were on tipped over and was suspended almost vertically outside Raffles City Tower on Monday (21 July). The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said that it responded to the height rescue incident, between the 28th and 29th floors of the building, at about 11.20am. Both workers were assessed by a paramedic and taken to Raffles Hospital in a stable condition, SCDF added. A Raffles City Singapore spokesperson said initial checks showed that both workers did not have any injuries. The workers, who were employed by the building's contractor, were carrying out routine facade resealant works when there was a sudden change in weather at 11.20am. An immediate stop-work order was issued. But while the gondola was being retracted, it tilted to one side. Two workers were rescued after the gondola they were on tipped over and was suspended almost vertically outside Raffles City Tower on Monday (21 July). The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said that it responded to the height rescue incident, between the 28th and 29th floors of the building, at about 11.20am. Both workers were assessed by a paramedic and taken to Raffles Hospital in a stable condition, SCDF added. A Raffles City Singapore spokesperson said initial checks showed that both workers did not have any injuries. The workers, who were employed by the building's contractor, were carrying out routine facade resealant works when there was a sudden change in weather at 11.20am. An immediate stop-work order was issued. But while the gondola was being retracted, it tilted to one side. Joint Singapore-Malaysia emergency response exercise on Tuas Second Link on Wednesday Motorists using the Tuas Second Link, take note. There will be a joint Singapore-Malaysia chemical spill emergency response exercise on Wednesday (23 July) from 5am to 2pm. In a statement, the National Environment Agency (NEA) said, "During the period of the exercise, all three lanes on the Singapore to Malaysia-bound carriageway on the Tuas Second Link will be closed to vehicular traffic. Motorists travelling towards Malaysia will be diverted to a lane on the opposite carriageway instead. Motorists should plan their journey in advance and closely follow the traffic marshals' directions on site. "Where possible, motorists are advised to avoid the Tuas Second Link when the exercise is ongoing and use the Woodlands Checkpoint during this period. Motorists are also advised to tune in to the Singapore radio stations for traffic updates." "The exercise will simulate the emergency response to a multi-vehicle collision along the Tuas Second Link involving trucks carrying chemicals. The public is advised not to be alarmed," the NEA added. Motorists using the Tuas Second Link, take note. There will be a joint Singapore-Malaysia chemical spill emergency response exercise on Wednesday (23 July) from 5am to 2pm. In a statement, the National Environment Agency (NEA) said, "During the period of the exercise, all three lanes on the Singapore to Malaysia-bound carriageway on the Tuas Second Link will be closed to vehicular traffic. Motorists travelling towards Malaysia will be diverted to a lane on the opposite carriageway instead. Motorists should plan their journey in advance and closely follow the traffic marshals' directions on site. "Where possible, motorists are advised to avoid the Tuas Second Link when the exercise is ongoing and use the Woodlands Checkpoint during this period. Motorists are also advised to tune in to the Singapore radio stations for traffic updates." "The exercise will simulate the emergency response to a multi-vehicle collision along the Tuas Second Link involving trucks carrying chemicals. The public is advised not to be alarmed," the NEA added. ComfortDelGro to discipline driver who threw relative's wheelchair out of taxi Taxi operator ComfortDelGro said it will discipline one of its drivers, after an incident involving the driver appearing to forcefully dump a passenger's wheelchair on a pavement on 18 July. Responding to media queries, a spokesperson said on Sunday (20 July) that the company has launched an investigation into the matter. The spokesperson noted the driver's actions were 'unacceptable and do not reflect the professional standards we uphold'. In an updated statement, ComfortDelGro said the incident arose from a personal dispute between the driver and two family members she was ferrying. Find out more about what happened with the ComfortDelGro taxi. Taxi operator ComfortDelGro said it will discipline one of its drivers, after an incident involving the driver appearing to forcefully dump a passenger's wheelchair on a pavement on 18 July. Responding to media queries, a spokesperson said on Sunday (20 July) that the company has launched an investigation into the matter. The spokesperson noted the driver's actions were 'unacceptable and do not reflect the professional standards we uphold'. In an updated statement, ComfortDelGro said the incident arose from a personal dispute between the driver and two family members she was ferrying. Find out more about what happened with the ComfortDelGro taxi. Typhoon Wipha causes damage, disrupt flights, before weakening to severe tropical storm Typhoon Wipha toppled trees and caused major flight disruptions Sunday (20 July) in Hong Kong and at some nearby airports in China as it moved west off the southern coast of the country. Earlier on Sunday morning, the Hong Kong Observatory issued a hurricane signal No. 10, its highest warning. Airports in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Zhuhai and the casino hub of Macao canceled or postponed flights for most of the day, according to their websites. Hong Kong grounded at least 400 flights, affecting around 80,000 passengers, broadcaster RTHK said. Some high-speed train services were also suspended. The typhoon stayed just offshore until about 6 pm, when it made landfall in a coastal area of Taishan city in Guangdong province, China's National Meteorological Center said. It then weakened to a severe tropical storm with maximum sustained winds of 108 kph. Typhoon Wipha toppled trees and caused major flight disruptions Sunday (20 July) in Hong Kong and at some nearby airports in China as it moved west off the southern coast of the country. Earlier on Sunday morning, the Hong Kong Observatory issued a hurricane signal No. 10, its highest warning. Airports in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Zhuhai and the casino hub of Macao canceled or postponed flights for most of the day, according to their websites. Hong Kong grounded at least 400 flights, affecting around 80,000 passengers, broadcaster RTHK said. Some high-speed train services were also suspended. The typhoon stayed just offshore until about 6 pm, when it made landfall in a coastal area of Taishan city in Guangdong province, China's National Meteorological Center said. It then weakened to a severe tropical storm with maximum sustained winds of 108 kph.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Plans to list etomidate as illegal drug: Ong Ye Kung, Typhoon Wipha causes major flight disruptions: Singapore live news
Singapore's Health and Home Affairs Ministries are working to list etomidate, which is being abused via e-vaporisers, under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA), Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said on Sunday (20 July). This paves the way for abusers and traffickers of Kpods – vapes containing etomidate – to be treated in the same way as those who abuse or traffic drugs like nimetazepam (Erimin-5), with mandatory rehabilitation and jail time for repeat offenders. Currently, etomidate is listed under the Poisons Act. Under this law, abusers face only a fine. Sellers face possible jail time of up to two years. Ong said this will be done in the coming weeks. He added that it will be an interim measure until further changes can be made to the law to tackle the vaping scourge in Singapore. Read more about why there are plans to list etomidate under the MDA. Typhoon Wipha toppled trees and caused major flight disruptions Sunday (20 July) in Hong Kong and at some nearby airports in China as it moved west off the southern coast of the country. Earlier on Sunday morning, the Hong Kong Observatory issued a hurricane signal No. 10, its highest warning. Find out more about Typhoon Wipha, which was later downgraded to a severe tropical storm. Read more in our live blog below, including the latest local and international news and updates: MOH, MHA working to list etomidate as illegal drug: Ong Ye Kung Singapore's Health and Home Affairs Ministries are working to list etomidate, which is being abused via e-vaporisers, under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA), Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said on Sunday (20 July). This paves the way for abusers and traffickers of Kpods – vapes containing etomidate – to be treated in the same way as those who abuse or traffic drugs like nimetazepam (Erimin-5), with mandatory rehabilitation and jail time for repeat offenders. Currently, etomidate is listed under the Poisons Act. Under this law, abusers face only a fine. Sellers face possible jail time of up to two years. Ong said this will be done in the coming weeks. He added that it will be an interim measure until further changes can be made to the law to tackle the vaping scourge in Singapore. Read more about why there are plans to list etomidate under the MDA. Typhoon Wipha causes damage, disrupt flights, before weakening to severe tropical storm Typhoon Wipha toppled trees and caused major flight disruptions Sunday (20 July) in Hong Kong and at some nearby airports in China as it moved west off the southern coast of the country. Earlier on Sunday morning, the Hong Kong Observatory issued a hurricane signal No. 10, its highest warning. Airports in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Zhuhai and the casino hub of Macao canceled or postponed flights for most of the day, according to their websites. Hong Kong grounded at least 400 flights, affecting around 80,000 passengers, broadcaster RTHK said. Some high-speed train services were also suspended. The typhoon stayed just offshore until about 6 pm, when it made landfall in a coastal area of Taishan city in Guangdong province, China's National Meteorological Center said. It then weakened to a severe tropical storm with maximum sustained winds of 108 kph. Singapore's Health and Home Affairs Ministries are working to list etomidate, which is being abused via e-vaporisers, under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA), Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said on Sunday (20 July). This paves the way for abusers and traffickers of Kpods – vapes containing etomidate – to be treated in the same way as those who abuse or traffic drugs like nimetazepam (Erimin-5), with mandatory rehabilitation and jail time for repeat offenders. Currently, etomidate is listed under the Poisons Act. Under this law, abusers face only a fine. Sellers face possible jail time of up to two years. Ong said this will be done in the coming weeks. He added that it will be an interim measure until further changes can be made to the law to tackle the vaping scourge in Singapore. Read more about why there are plans to list etomidate under the MDA. Typhoon Wipha causes damage, disrupt flights, before weakening to severe tropical storm Typhoon Wipha toppled trees and caused major flight disruptions Sunday (20 July) in Hong Kong and at some nearby airports in China as it moved west off the southern coast of the country. Earlier on Sunday morning, the Hong Kong Observatory issued a hurricane signal No. 10, its highest warning. Airports in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Zhuhai and the casino hub of Macao canceled or postponed flights for most of the day, according to their websites. Hong Kong grounded at least 400 flights, affecting around 80,000 passengers, broadcaster RTHK said. Some high-speed train services were also suspended. The typhoon stayed just offshore until about 6 pm, when it made landfall in a coastal area of Taishan city in Guangdong province, China's National Meteorological Center said. It then weakened to a severe tropical storm with maximum sustained winds of 108 kph. Typhoon Wipha toppled trees and caused major flight disruptions Sunday (20 July) in Hong Kong and at some nearby airports in China as it moved west off the southern coast of the country. Earlier on Sunday morning, the Hong Kong Observatory issued a hurricane signal No. 10, its highest warning. Airports in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Zhuhai and the casino hub of Macao canceled or postponed flights for most of the day, according to their websites. Hong Kong grounded at least 400 flights, affecting around 80,000 passengers, broadcaster RTHK said. Some high-speed train services were also suspended. The typhoon stayed just offshore until about 6 pm, when it made landfall in a coastal area of Taishan city in Guangdong province, China's National Meteorological Center said. It then weakened to a severe tropical storm with maximum sustained winds of 108 kph.
CNA
2 days ago
- Health
- CNA
Singapore working to list etomidate as illegal drug as abuse cases rise
Those who abuse etomidate - a drug found in vapes - could soon face harsher penalties including mandatory rehabilitation and jail time. Health Minister Ong Ye Kung says the authorities (MHA, MOH) are working to list the substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA). It's now under the Poisons Act, which carries lighter penalties for users. Charlotte Lim with more on the growing problem.
South China Morning Post
3 days ago
- Health
- South China Morning Post
Singapore plans to list etomidate in vapes as illegal drug
Singapore is working to list etomidate, an anaesthetic that has been found in vapes, as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said on Sunday. '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).
