Japan warns of wave of “zombie cigarette” abuse among youth

(CLO) Japan is warning about the problem of young people using vape solutions mixed with the sedative etomidate, known as "zombie cigarettes".

By the end of September, Okinawa prefectural police had arrested 10 people, mostly under the age of 20, for possession of etomidate. In May this year, the Japanese government added etomidate, a substance that inhibits the activity of the cerebellum, affecting the ability to coordinate movements, to its list of banned substances.

Illustration photo.

Japanese investigators said etomidate was sold on secure messaging apps and spread via social media. Users typically inhaled the substance through e-cigarettes or vaping devices, in the form of flavored or unflavored liquid.

In a new development, Okinawa police arrested Yuto Agarie in October for allegedly storing about 63.84 grams of etomidate-containing solution at his home in Urasoe City for the purpose of selling it. Authorities suspect Agarie's group was the main supplier of the solution in the prefecture.

Etomidate is widely used abroad as an anesthetic for surgery. However, misuse of this drug can cause loss of consciousness, loss of body control, or convulsions of the limbs. Japan currently prohibits the use, possession, and import of etomidate.

Source: https://congluan.vn/nhat-ban-canh-bao-ve-lan-song-lam-dung-thuoc-la-xac-song-trong-gioi-tre-10317969.html