inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Indonesian National Police (INP)'s Drugs Criminal Investigation Directorate stated that action against e-cigarettes containing etomidate can still be taken. However, etomidate is not classified as a psychotropic drug.

The Director of Drugs Criminal Investigation Directorate, Brigadier General Eko Hadi Santoso, explained that etomidate has a sedative effect that lasts for at least three seconds when inhaled. Its distribution is also among users, resulting in more intense sales.

"The price of etomidate sold in Medan is different from in Jakarta and Bali. As of now, the product is mostly imported, but some people have already taken it and recycled it," said Eko on Wednesday (10/22/2025).

Eko added that his team has coordinated with the Ministry of Health and the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) in handling this case. He adds that etomidate is still permitted as long as it is for medical purposes.

"Etomidate isn't wrong if used correctly, because it's an anesthetic. Everyone should be wiser in using it," he explained.

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