SINGAPORE: Etomidate has been detected in the blood samples of two individuals involved in a fatal road accident in Singapore’s Punggol Road in May, according to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) on 25 July 2025.
The two were in a car that collided with a bus at about 2.50pm on 13 May.
The police later discovered 42 e-vaporisers and more than 1,200 pods in the vehicle.
Tests by HSA confirmed some of these contained etomidate.
The driver, a 30-year-old man, was conscious when he was taken to hospital after the collision.
His passenger, a 28-year-old woman, was found unconscious and later died in hospital.
HSA stated that the driver is assisting the police and HSA in ongoing investigations into the crash and possible e-vaporiser offences.
Etomidate is an anaesthetic agent approved only for clinical use under strict medical conditions.
According to HSA, when inhaled through e-vaporisers or oil capsules, it is not a registered medical product and is illegal.
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung announced on 20 July 2025 that the Health and Home Affairs ministries are moving to list etomidate under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
This comes amid a growing trend of vapes containing etomidate.
HSA warned that inhaling etomidate can cause involuntary muscle spasms, confusion, seizures, psychosis and physical dependence.
Currently, etomidate is regulated under the Poisons Act.
Offenders face fines, and sellers can be jailed for up to two years.
Once etomidate is classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act, stricter penalties will apply.
Users may face mandatory rehabilitation or supervision. Repeated offenders or those who commit other serious crimes can be jailed for at least a year.
HSA urged the public to stop using e-vaporisers immediately, highlighting their dangers.
Possessing, buying or using vapes in Singapore can result in a maximum fine of S$2,000.
Importing, distributing or selling vapes or related parts can carry a jail term of up to six months and a fine of up to S$10,000 for a first offence.
Repeat offenders may face up to a year in jail and fines of up to S$20,000.
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