NZ Issues National High Alert on Etomidate-Laced Vapes After Hospitalisations

Nov.04

New Zealand’s High Alert drug harm monitoring system has issued a public High Alert warning after multiple hospitalisations linked to illicit vape pods containing the anaesthetic etomidate. Known on the street as space oil, k-pods, or eto, these vapes were first detected in January 2025. Customs has since seized additional samples, and clinics nationwide report rising cases of poisoning and hypoglycaemia.

Key Highlights

Nationwide High Alert issued after etomidate detected in illicit vape pods.
Multiple hospitalisations and minor harm cases reported across the country.
Samples adulterated with GBL, pregabalin, and traces of ketamine.
Identification difficult as pods resemble standard vape liquids.
Public urged to call 111 if experiencing chest pain, seizures, or unconsciousness.

2Firsts, November 2, 2025 —New Zealand’s High Alert drug harm monitoring network has issued a public High Alert warning for illicit vape pods containing the anaesthetic etomidate, following a rise in harm cases and hospitalisations nationwide.

Etomidate vapes—known colloquially as space oil, k-pods, space vapes, or eto—were first detected by drug checking services in January 2025. Since then, New Zealand Customs has seized further samples at the border, while clinics have reported increasing cases across the country, suggesting rapid spread through illicit markets.

High Alert noted that several people in Aotearoa have been hospitalised, while other minor harm cases involved seizures and severe hypoglycaemia, likely linked to etomidate’s suppression of adrenal function.

Tests also revealed that many of the seized vape pods were adulterated with dangerous substances such as GBL, pregabalin, and traces of ketamine, increasing the risk of poisoning or accidental overdose.

Etomidate is a fast-acting central nervous system depressant used in hospitals for short anaesthetic procedures. When inhaled recreationally, it can cause sedation, impaired coordination, and respiratory depression — and becomes especially dangerous when mixed with other depressants.

Authorities strongly advise the public not to use etomidate vapes. Anyone experiencing chest pain, seizures, unconsciousness, or breathing difficulties after vaping should call 111 immediately.

Image source: Stuff

References:

[1] Illicit vape pods containing etomidate detected in NZ, harm cases reported

Also Read:

[1] PMI Compares Smoke-Free Policies in Three Countries: Japan and New Zealand Lead Tobacco Control, While Thailand’s Ban Stalls Harm Reduction

[2] New Zealand Health Ministry launches e-cigarette and nicotine pod procurement project for smoking cessation services

[3] NZ school principal says student vaping has eased markedly from the post-pandemic peak

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