Case Report: A literature review of the medical complications arising from etomidate-laced vapes and two case studies of hypokalemia associated with etomidate use - Takeaways - MDSpire

Case Report: A literature review of the medical complications arising from etomidate-laced vapes and two case studies of hypokalemia associated with etomidate use

  • By

  • Tian Ling Low

  • Christopher Cheng Soon Cheok

  • Melvyn Weibin Zhang

  • June 17, 2026

  • 0 min

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  • 1

    Etomidate misuse through e-vaporizers has emerged as a significant public health issue in East and Southeast Asia.

  • 2

    Two patients with etomidate-laced vaporizer use were found to have asymptomatic hypokalemia during outpatient evaluations.

  • 3

    Both patients exhibited diffuse and palmer crease hyperpigmentation, indicating potential adrenal dysfunction.

  • 4

    Unregulated inhalation of etomidate can lead to prolonged adrenal dysfunction and severe medical complications.

  • 5

    Singapore has implemented regulatory controls and treatment pathways for individuals misusing etomidate-laced vapes.

Original Source(s)

Case Report: A literature review of the medical complications arising from etomidate-laced vapes and two case studies of hypokalemia associated with etomidate use

  • by Tian Ling Low, Christopher Cheng Soon Cheok, Melvyn Weibin Zhang

  • June 17, 2026

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