A recreational drug known as “zombie juice” or etomidate is spreading among young people in Japan and other Asian countries, causing alarming side effects.
What is Etomidate?
Etomidate, a surgical anesthetic, has been increasingly used recreationally by young people in Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and Okinawa.
Dangerous Side Effects
The substance can cause loss of consciousness, convulsions, disorientation, memory loss, respiratory depression, and numbness, earning it the nickname “zombie” due to its zombie-like effects on users.
Users have also experienced difficulty speaking and walking.
Government Response
The Japanese government has classified etomidate as a hazardous substance, making possession, distribution, or use punishable by up to three years in prison or a fine of approximately 73,000 zł.
According to lawyer Tomoki Amemiya, even if someone previously possessed etomidate legally, continued possession can lead to arrest.
