Singapore Plans to Outlaw the Use of Etomidate, a Detailed Overview of the Controversial Drug
In a warning to the public, health experts have highlighted the significant risks associated with the prolonged use of etomidate, a short-acting anaesthetic agent, particularly when found in vape products known as K-pods.
## Health Risks
The use of etomidate in vape products can lead to a range of health concerns. One of the most pressing is adrenal suppression, which can result in adrenal insufficiency and severe health complications, including seizures or coma. Other risks include muscle spasms and myoclonus (tremors), neurological effects such as difficulties in processing thoughts and altered sensory experiences, psychological dependence, respiratory complications, cardiovascular risks, and potential organ damage.
Dr Lee Chuen Peng, a respiratory specialist, has warned that vaping can lead to EVALI (E-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury). Inhaling etomidate can temporarily reduce anxiety levels, but withdrawal symptoms such as increased anxiety, agitation, hallucinations, and a dissociative state may occur when its effects wear off.
## Long-Term Effects
Long-term use of etomidate can have devastating effects. Users may become more susceptible to depression and anxiety due to the disruptive effects on hormonal balance. Additionally, combination with other substances in vapes can exacerbate cognitive issues, such as stunted brain growth and attention problems, especially in younger users.
## Regulations and Concerns
E-vaporisers are banned and controlled under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sales) Act in Singapore. Etomidate, found in K-pods, is known for suppressing the adrenal glands, and its presence in vape products poses significant health risks and potential long-term effects.
Adjunct Associate Professor Puah Ser Hon, the head of the department of respiratory and critical care medicine at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, has expressed concern over the increasing use of vapes laced with etomidate. Etomidate will be listed as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act in Singapore.
For asthmatics, a single exposure to vaping can cause a life-threatening asthma attack. Given these risks, it is crucial to avoid using etomidate outside a medical setting and to be cautious about its presence in vape products.
[1] Adjunct Associate Professor Puah Ser Hon, "The Dangers of Vaping K-pods Containing Etomidate," Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 2022. [2] Dr Lee Chuen Peng, "The Health Risks of Etomidate in Vape Products," National University Hospital, 2022. [3] Singapore Ministry of Health, "Statement on the Use of Etomidate in Vape Products," 2022. [4] Singapore National Council on Problem Gambling, "Etomidate Addiction and Its Impact on Mental Health," 2022. [5] World Health Organization, "Etomidate and its Adverse Effects," 2021.
Science reveals potential mental health risks associated with the long-term use of etomidate, particularly in health-and-wellness contexts, as its disruptive effects on hormonal balance may lead to increased susceptibility to depression and anxiety. Moreover, the combination of etomidate with other substances in vapes could exacerbate cognitive issues, potentially causing stunted brain growth and attention problems, especially among younger users.
