Alert after deadly discovery in illicit vapes
Google News
A powerful anaesthetic, etomidate, has been found in illicit vapes in Melbourne, posing severe health risks.Summary
A powerful anaesthetic known as etomidate has been discovered in illicit vapes sold in Melbourne, prompting a state health department alert. The substance can cause rapid sedation, confusion, loss of consciousness, and dangerously slow breathing, particularly when combined with alcohol or other sedatives. Health officials warn that products sold as "space oil," "k-pods," or "space vapes" may also contain etomidate or potent novel opioids. While naloxone can reverse opioid overdoses, it is ineffective against etomidate. Authorities have seized millions of illicit vapes, and federal legislation aims to tighten import controls, though current laws still allow illicit vape stores to operate in Victoria.
(Source：Google News)
