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Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB)

Etomidate

Relevant information on Etomidate.

Last updated 9 March 2026

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Description
Effects and dangers
Penalties
Vape pods fill with etomidate

Description

Etomidate and its analogues were listed as Class C controlled drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act (‘MDA’) from 1 September 2025 as an interim measure. With this change, those who traffic, import or export, possess, or consume etomidate will face prosecution under the MDA, with much stiffer penalties than before. Individuals found using etomidate e-vaporisers or who test positive for etomidate will be subjected to rehabilitation, treatment, mandatory supervision and detention.

From 1 May 2026, etomidate and its analogues will be delisted from the MDA, and they will be dealt with using the Tobacco and Vaporisers Control Act 1993 (TVCA) instead.

Effects and dangers

The adverse effects of etomidate when used in e-vaporisers include causing involuntary movements or spasm of muscles, confusion, seizures and psychosis. It can lead to physical dependence.

Penalties

Individuals who are repeat abusers [1] of etomidate can be subjected to mandatory supervision, as well as rehabilitation and treatment in the Drug Rehabilitation Centre. Those who import, sell or distribute etomidate-laced e-vaporisers will face prosecution.

The related penalties are as follows:

Trafficking of etomidate and its analogues:

  • Minimum of 2 years of imprisonment and 2 strokes of the cane, up to a maximum of 10 years of imprisonment and 5 strokes of the cane

Illegal import or export of etomidate and its analogues:

  • Minimum of 3 years of imprisonment and 5 strokes of the cane, up to a maximum of 20 years of imprisonment and 15 strokes of the cane

Possession of etomidate and its analogues:

  • Maximum of 10 years of imprisonment or a fine of $20,000 or both

Consumption of etomidate and its analogues [2]:

  • Minimum of 1 year of imprisonment, up to a maximum of 10 years of imprisonment with a maximum fine of $20,000

For more information, please refer to the news releases on Whole of Government Efforts to Tackle Vaping, Amendments to the First Schedule of the Misuse of Drugs Act and Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) (Amendment) and Other Matters Bill to Strengthen Enforcement Against Vaping and Etomidate Abuse.

[1] First time etomidate e-vaporiser abusers will be given mandatory rehabilitation under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act.

[2] Abusers who deny consumption or have concurrent offences may face prosecution in lieu of rehabilitation.