Etomidate’s temporary listing as Class C drug to continue as MOH finalises new vape laws: Shanmugam
Etomidate will remain a Class C drug in Singapore as the Ministry of Health develops new, comprehensive vape laws expected by 2026.Summary
Singapore will introduce new laws to address e-vaporisers, including provisions for the anaesthetic agent etomidate, within the first half of 2026. Currently, etomidate is listed as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA) due to a surge in its use in vapes, known as Kpods. Coordinating Minister for National Security K. Shanmugam confirmed that etomidate’s Class C status will continue while the Ministry of Health (MOH) drafts legislative amendments. The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is maintaining a strict anti-vape stance and seeking higher penalties for offenders, even for cases predating the temporary provisions implemented in September 2025. Penalties for vaping offenses range from fines to imprisonment, with harsher sentences for etomidate-laced vapes. Authorities reported 3,534 people were caught for vape-related offenses in the last four months of 2025, including both vape users and Kpod abusers.
(Source：The Straits Times)
