2FIRSTS | Singapore to Extend Etomidate Controls and Table New Vape Legislation in 2026
Singapore will extend etomidate controls under the Misuse of Drugs Act and introduce new legislation for all vapes in 2026.Summary
Singapore is extending its current drug control measures for etomidate, classifying it as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA). This decision follows an increase in cases of youths using etomidate-laced vapes, known as Kpods, and was initially implemented on September 1, 2025, with temporary provisions set to expire on February 28, 2026. Coordinating Minister K. Shanmugam stated the listing will continue while the Ministry of Health (MOH) drafts amendments to existing laws. A new Bill addressing e-vaporisers, including provisions for etomidate, will be presented to Parliament in the first half of 2026. Currently, non-etomidate vapes are regulated under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act, with the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) as the lead agency. In the last four months of 2025, 3,534 individuals were caught and fined for vape-related offenses, including 366 Kpod abusers. Penalties for etomidate-laced vapes are significantly harsher than those for regular vapes, reflecting the greater risk associated with the former.
(Source：2Firsts)
