Singapore Reclassifies Etomidate as Class C Drug to Combat Abuse
Singapore is taking a important step to address the rising abuse of etomidate, a sedative drug, by reclassifying it as a Class C controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA). This move, announced by the Ministry of home Affairs (MHA), will empower authorities to implement stricter measures for supervision, treatment, and rehabilitation of individuals misusing the drug.
Previously, etomidate was regulated under the Poisons Act as a poison. The new classification as a Class C drug means that users will be subject to supervision and might potentially be required to participate in mandatory rehabilitation programs or be admitted to drug rehabilitation centers. The MHA is also supporting the Ministry of Health (MOH) in determining further legislative actions against offenders.
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) will be involved in enforcement efforts, including the supervision, treatment, and rehabilitation of etomidate abusers.
For those wishing to report vaping-related offenses, the HSA provides a dedicated hotline at 6684-2036 or 6684-2037, operational daily from 9 a.m.to 9 p.m., including public holidays. Reports can also be submitted online via www.go.gov.sg/reportvape.Individuals with personal experiences or stories related to vaping are encouraged to share them by emailing stnewsdesk@sph.com.sg.
Keywords: Etomidate, Class C drug, Misuse of Drugs Act, Singapore, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Health, Health Sciences Authority, drug abuse, rehabilitation, vaping, e-cigarettes.
