Parents may have noticed that the Narcotics Division of the Security Bureau has been actively promoting anti-drug messages, with a recent focus on an emerging drug called "Etomidate" (commonly known as "Space Oil"). Etomidate has discreetly gained popularity among Hong Kong youth, and its packaging closely resembles ordinary e-cigarettes. This has led to severe health risks and serious legal consequences. It is vital for parents and students to work together to recognise how this substance endangers lives. Hong Kong Education City has compiled the following information as a reference for parents.

I. Current Drug Abuse Situation in Hong Kong
According to Narcotics Division of Security Bureau, cases involving Etomidate have risen significantly. Alarmingly, teenagers account for a substantial proportion of those using substances. This new drug is often hidden within ordinary-looking e-liquids, unlike traditional drugs such as cannabis or methamphetamine ("ice"), it lacks a strong odor or specialised paraphernalia. Dealers mislead youth into believing it is merely a "flavored e-cigarette" by adding fruit or mint flavours.

Furthermore, compared to other dangerous drugs, Etomidate pods are priced low and affordable to teenagers, and dealers exploit social media platforms for illegal sales, allowing young people to easily place orders via mobile phones. Driven by peer pressure, boredom, curiosity, or stress, many adopt a "one puff won't hurt" mentality. Youth often underestimate the severe subsequent risks, including seizures, coma, or even death because the initial effects may only involve dizziness or a sensation of floating.

II. What is Etomidate?
Medically, Etomidate is a short-acting anaesthetic intended strictly for use in hospital operating rooms. It is administered by professional anaesthesiologists to induce and maintain general anesthesia. However, illicit actors illegally mix this substance into e-liquids and sell it on the black market under the deceptive name "Space Oil."

III. Known Adverse Effects and Health Risks of Etomidate
Etomidate is not a safe substance, which vaping Etomidate causes severe damage to the central nervous system.

• Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fainting, unsteady gait, involuntary muscle twitching, and tremors.
• Long-term Hazards: Interferes with adrenal hormone secretion, leading to low blood potassium (hypokalemia), unstable blood pressure, and severe adrenal failure, which can be fatal.
• Symptoms of Overdose: If inhaled in excess, symptoms may include a "blackout-like" loss of consciousness, respiratory distress (difficulty breathing), or uncontrollable physical tremors.

IV. Government Legislation and Severe Penalties
To combat the spread of Etomidate, the Hong Kong Government has strengthened both law enforcement and legislative oversight.

• Legal Status: Since 14 February 2025, Etomidate and its analogues have been formally classified as dangerous drugs under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (Cap. 134).
• Penalties:
o Illegal Possession or Consumption: Subject to a maximum penalty of a HK$1 million fine and 7 years’ imprisonment.
o Trafficking in or Illicit Manufacture of dangerous drug: Subject to a maximum penalty of a HK$5 million fine and life imprisonment.

Parents and students must understand that once dangerous drugs are involved, the law does not grant exemptions based on "curiosity" or "mistaking the substance for a regular e-cigarette."

V. Medical Treatment and Support Mechanisms
If you suspect someone is under the influence of Etomidate or shows signs of substance abuse, please seek help immediately through the following support networks:

• Hospital Authority "Substance Abuse Clinics": There are 9 clinics across Hong Kong providing professional medical assessments and addiction treatment services.
• Counselling Centres for Psychotropic Substance Abusers (CCPSAs): There are 11 centres providing specialised counselling, treatment, and rehabilitation support for habitual/ occasional/ potential psychotropic substance abusers and their families.
• 24-Hour "186 186" Hotline: Operated by the Narcotics Division. For immediate professional counselling from social workers, call 186 186 or send a message via WhatsApp / WeChat to 98 186 186.

Conclusion: Stand Together Against Drugs, Protect Our Children's Future
What begins as a moment of curiosity can cost a lifetime of health and freedom. Etomidate is not just a vapour but a lethal trap that endangers lives. Students should refuse any e-cigarettes from unknown sources. Meanwhile, parents should communicate more often with their children and remain vigilant if found for any signs of unusual physical symptoms or sudden, unexplained changes in spending or financial status. Let us "Stand Firm. Knock Drugs Out!" to create a drug-free, healthy environment for our younger generation.

Source of information:

1.
https://www.police.gov.hk/offbeat120/drug/01_space_oil_definition.html
2.
https://www.nd.gov.hk/en/spaceoil_drug.html
3.
https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202507/16/P2025071600662.htm?fontSize=1
4.
https://www.legco.gov.hk/yr2025/english/panels/se/papers/se20250603cb2-1049-6-e.pdf
5. https://www.hkcss.org.hk/%E7%AC%AC88%E6%9C%9F%E3%80%90%E7%AB%8B%E9%AB%94%E7%84%A6%E9%BB%9E%E3%80%91%E4%BE%9D%E6%89%98%E5%92%AA%E9%85%AF%E6%AF%92%E6%95%88%E5%BF%AB/
6.
https://www.police.gov.hk/offbeat120/drug/05_space-oil-legal-penalties-enforcement.html
7.
https://www3.ha.org.hk/cph/imh/Document/MentalHealthInfo_Pamphlets/3_SubstanceMususe/9_5_EN.pdf