Singapore Reports First Etomidate Abuse Case, Intensifies Drug Enforcement
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A 16-year-old Singaporean boy was admitted to the Drug Rehabilitation Center (DRC) on Nov. 27 for a two-month program, marking the first case of a person receiving treatment for etomidate abuse in the nation. This development comes as authorities crack down on the emerging threat of the potent sedative being distributed through illicit e-vaporizers.
Keywords: Etomidate abuse, Drug Rehabilitation Centre, Singapore drug policy, misuse of Drugs Act.
Related Keywords: HSA (Health Sciences Authority), MHA (Ministry of Home Affairs), Class C controlled drug.
Rising Concerns Over Etomidate in E-Vaporizers
The case highlights a growing concern over the illegal importation and sale of etomidate, a powerful anesthetic typically used in medical settings, now appearing in unregulated vape products. The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) initially detected the boy in possession of a standard vape on Sep. 4. Subsequent investigations led to the discovery of etomidate-laced vapes at his residence on Oct.2, constituting his first offense related to the substance.
He was then apprehended again on Oct. 11 for possession and consumption of etomidate at his home, followed by a third incident on oct. 23, where he was found exhibiting signs of intoxication – slurred speech and abnormal behavior – inside a ride-hailing vehicle.
New Regulations and Rehabilitation Programs
Following the escalating incidents, etomidate was officially classified as a Class C controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act on Sep. 1. This designation allows for stricter penalties and enhanced enforcement measures.
“Etomidate abusers admitted to the DRC will undergo rehabilitation programs to address their risk of re-offending,” a joint statement from the MHA and HSA confirmed. These programs will encompass a range of interventions, including psychology-based correctional programs, family programs, pro-social support programs, and religious counseling.
upon completion of the two-month DRC program, individuals will be subject to 12 months of total rehabilitation, including regular drug tests and ongoing community supervision.
Stiff Penalties for Traffickers and Distributors
Authorities are sending a clear message to those involved in the illicit trade of etomidate e-vaporizers. Importers face potential sentences of three to 20 years’ imprisonment and up to 15 strokes of the cane. Sellers and distributors could receive prison terms of two
Expanded News Report:
Singapore reports First Etomidate Abuse Case, Intensifies Drug Enforcement
A 16-year-old singaporean boy was admitted to the Drug Rehabilitation centre (DRC) on Nov. 27 for a two-month program, marking the first case of a person receiving treatment for etomidate abuse in the nation.This development comes as authorities crack down on the emerging threat of the potent sedative being distributed through illicit e-vaporizers.
Keywords: Etomidate abuse, Drug Rehabilitation Centre, Singapore drug policy, Misuse of Drugs Act.
Related Keywords: HSA (Health Sciences Authority), MHA (Ministry of Home Affairs), Class C controlled drug.
