Etomidate detected in Punggol fatal crash victims; substance linked to illegal e-vaporisers
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) confirmed that etomidate, an anaesthetic drug, was found in two people involved in a fatal Punggol Road crash in May. The case has prompted investigations into e-vaporisers containing the substance.
- Etomidate found in crash victims’ blood and some seized vapes.
- HSA warns of health risks and illegal use outside clinical settings.
- Drug to be listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act for stricter control.
- Police and HSA investigations into the crash and e-vaporiser offences are ongoing.
Etomidate has been detected in the blood samples of two individuals involved in a fatal road accident in Punggol Road in May, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) said on 25 July 2025.
The two were in a car that collided with a bus at about 2.50pm on 13 May. The crash left one dead and another injured.
Police later found 42 e-vaporisers and over 1,200 pods in the vehicle. Laboratory tests by HSA confirmed that some of these products contained etomidate, a potent anaesthetic agent.
The driver, a 30-year-old man, was conscious when taken to hospital, while his passenger, a 28-year-old woman, was found unconscious and later pronounced dead.
HSA said the driver is assisting both the police and HSA in investigations into the crash and possible e-vaporiser-related offences.
Etomidate: a clinical anaesthetic misused in vapes
Etomidate is approved only for use in medical settings under controlled conditions, typically for inducing anaesthesia.
HSA clarified that etomidate-containing e-vaporisers or oil capsules are not registered medical products and are illegal. When inhaled, the substance can cause serious side effects, including involuntary muscle spasms, confusion, seizures, psychosis and physical dependence.
Move to classify under Misuse of Drugs Act
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung announced on 20 July that the Health Ministry and Home Affairs Ministry are moving to classify etomidate as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA).
Currently, etomidate is regulated under the Poisons Act, which carries lighter penalties such as fines and limited jail terms.
Once listed under the MDA, possession or consumption of etomidate could result in mandatory rehabilitation or supervision, while repeat offenders or those committing related serious offences could face at least one year of imprisonment.
Rising trend of drug-laced vapes
The announcement follows a growing trend of illicit vapes containing anaesthetic and psychoactive drugs, prompting authorities to intensify enforcement against online and retail sellers.
HSA reiterated that the use, possession or sale of e-vaporisers remains illegal in Singapore.
Those caught using or possessing vapes can be fined up to S$2,000, while individuals found importing, distributing or selling them face up to six months in jail and a fine of S$10,000 for a first offence.
Repeat offenders risk up to a year in jail and fines of up to S$20,000.
Public warning
HSA urged members of the public to stop using e-vaporisers immediately and to seek medical help if they experience unusual symptoms after vaping.
The agency added that it will continue monitoring the abuse of emerging substances and work with law enforcement agencies to safeguard public health.
