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
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