Etomidate-Laced Kpods Raise Alarm as Use Spreads in Singapore
She appeared unsteady as she vaped on a crowded MRT train, unaware she was being filmed. Days later, a raid at her home uncovered vape pods containing etomidate, an anaesthetic never meant for casual use.
Her case has brought renewed attention to the rising use of etomidate in Kpods, a drug-laced vape trend now spreading among teenagers.
@mothershipsg HSA said that they take a serious view of the possession and use of e-vaporisers and will take stern action against offenders. “This incident, in which the woman openly vaped on an MRT train, was a flagrant violation of the law.” #sgnews #tiktok ♬ Breaking News Background Music (Basic A)(1001538) – LEOPARD
As authorities crack down, questions are growing about what exactly is in these vapes, how dangerous they are, and why so many young people are turning to them.
To understand what drives young people to try these drug-laced vapes, we spoke with Dr Adrian Wang, a psychiatrist at Dr Adrian Wang Psychiatric & Counselling Care at Gleneagles Medical Centre. He treats a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety and depression.
“Teenagers are naturally curious,” notes Dr Adrian Wang. “They may experiment with these drug-laced vapes out of boredom, as an escape from stress, or sometimes as an act of rebellion. They are also easily influenced by social media and peer pressure.”
For some, the appeal lies in the thrill of trying something forbidden or new, especially when it comes with claims of being undetectable or safer than traditional drugs.
Authorities Step In as Drug-Laced Vapes Spread
Authorities have increased surveillance of online platforms in response. In 2024, HSA removed over 6,000 vape-related listings — double the figure from the year before. Immigration and Checkpoint Authority (ICA) officers at checkpoints have intercepted thousands of components hidden in vehicles and personal belongings.
Despite the ban, enforcement figures show that the trend continues. Between July and September 2024, nearly 4,000 people were caught vaping, including over 740 students.
Authorities say they are monitoring the situation closely and will not hesitate to take action.
The Drug Behind the Vape Craze
Kpods are vape pods laced with sedatives such as etomidate or ketamine. Marketed as stronger alternatives to nicotine vapes, they are sold discreetly through Telegram groups.
Many appear harmless at first glance, with sleek designs and sweet, fruity flavours — making them particularly appealing to young users. Youth often refer to Kpods as “zombie vapes” because of the dazed, slowed movements they cause. Sellers mislead buyers by claiming the substances cannot be detected in urine tests, falsely portraying them as low-risk.
Dr Wang points out that the real danger lies in the unpredictability. “Many people think a low dose of the drug won’t hurt. The danger is that we can’t predict side effects, which can be catastrophic, like hallucinations or low mood. It’s a slippery slope to being a frequent user and getting addicted.”
Kpods Raise Risk of Overdose, Psychosis, and Lung Injury
Etomidate is a sedative used in hospitals to induce anaesthesia during short medical procedures. When inhaled through vapes like Kpods, its effects become dangerous and unpredictable.
The body absorbs the drug rapidly through the lungs, bypassing the careful dosage and monitoring that would occur in clinical settings.
Etomidate is an anaesthetic used in hospitals to sedate patients during short procedures. But when inhaled through vaping devices, its effects become unpredictable. Users report dizziness, heavy limbs, and poor coordination.
Once inhaled, etomidate acts on the brain’s GABA receptors, depressing activity in the central nervous system.
“They depress brain and nervous system activity, leading to a short period of sedation and anaesthesia,” Dr Wang explains.
This leads to the slowed speech, drowsiness, and poor coordination often seen in users. However, because the dose is uncontrolled, these effects can escalate quickly. Seizures, loss of consciousness, and coma may occur.
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) states that misuse of etomidate may cause vomiting, muscle spasms, altered breathing, blood pressure instability, and psychosis. These symptoms reflect the drug’s wide-reaching effects on multiple organ systems, especially the brain and heart.
Etomidate also suppresses the body’s cortisol response. Cortisol is a hormone that helps regulate blood pressure, immune response, and energy levels during stress. Suppressing it can impair the body’s ability to respond to illness, trauma, or surgery, increasing the risk of severe complications, especially in emergencies.
Authorities Crack Down on Etomidate in Kpods
Singapore’s authorities have stepped up efforts to tackle the growing threat of etomidate in Kpods, with enforcement actions targeting both users and suppliers.
The woman filmed vaping on the MRT train in March 2025 is now assisting with investigations, and may face charges under both the Poisons Act and the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act.
Earlier that year, in January 2025, more than 8,700 e-vaporisers and components were seized from an industrial unit at Kaki Bukit. Some pods were suspected to contain etomidate. Investigators also found ketamine, duty-unpaid cigarettes, and suspected controlled substances. Three people were arrested in connection with the case, which included plans to sell the products via Telegram.
Etomidate is classified as a poison under the Poisons Act. It can only be used under medical supervision. Those convicted of importing, selling, or supplying etomidate without a licence may face up to two years in jail, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.
Vaping remains illegal in Singapore. The sale, import, or distribution of e-vaporisers is punishable under the Tobacco Act. First-time offenders face fines of up to $10,000 or six months’ jail. Repeat offences can bring up to $20,000 in fines or 12 months’ jail.
Spotting the Signs and Stopping the Spread of Drug-Laced Vapes
As etomidate in Kpods continues to spread, families, educators, and users need practical ways to respond.
If you vape or know someone who does
- Stop using pods from unknown sources immediately
- Seek medical help if you feel unwell after vaping. Symptoms may include confusion, seizures, or slowed breathing
- Talk to a doctor or pharmacist about nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) if you struggle to quit
- Avoid Telegram or online sellers claiming vapes are “undetectable” or “safe alternatives”, these are red flags
Dr Wang observes that spotting abuse isn’t always straightforward. “There are no definitive tell-tale signs, but a person frequently abusing these substances may have tremors, become withdrawn, or exhibit changes in mood and behaviour.”
Dependency is rarely obvious at first. “It is hard to differentiate the two. Signs of dependency include withdrawal symptoms, craving the substance, and impairment in daily function. That might look like repeated drug use disrupting school, work, or family life.”
If you’re a parent or caregiver
- Watch for warning signs like fatigue, irritability, or secrecy
- Be honest with them. Most users don’t know what’s really in the pods they’re using. That uncertainty alone carries real risk
- Treat them as informed decision-makers and share the facts: these vapes often contain potent drugs, with unpredictable effects
- Don’t lecture. Instead, explain that what makes Kpods risky is the lack of control. No one knows exactly what’s in them
Dr Wang advises avoiding confrontation. “The user already knows it’s wrong and has a list of excuses. Provide a listening ear and tell the person that help is available. Try to help with other issues, like work or relationship stress, that might be driving the person to use these substances.”
He cautions that the immediate danger isn’t the whole story. “The main problem with long-term use lies in the reasons behind it. Depression and anxiety often sit beneath the surface and can worsen when hypnotics like etomidate are involved.”
The drug is dangerous, but judgement, fear, and misinformation often do just as much damage. Real change starts when support replaces stigma, and when people feel safe enough to ask for help.
Resources to quit
If you’re looking to quit vaping or smoking in Singapore, here are some resources that can assist you:
- QuitLine: 1800 438 2000
- Singapore General Hospital Smoking Cessation Programme: 6326 5361 (8am–5 pm, Mon–Fri)
Article last updated on 16 April 2025.
