Etomidate-Laced Vapes Under Scrutiny Following Arrest of Influencer Jule
The name etomidate has come under the spotlight after social media influencer Julia Prastini, known as Jule, was arrested in connection with the discovery of vapes containing the substance. Etomidate is an anaesthetic drug used in the medical field, but its use must be strictly regulated.
Jule was arrested by the Soekarno-Hatta Airport Police in an apartment in South Jakarta on Monday (14/09/2026). The arrest is an extension of a case involving two women suspected of selling etomidate-laced vapes to her.
“That is correct,” said AKP Michael Tandayu, Head of Narcotics Unit at Soekarno-Hatta Airport Police, as quoted by CNN Indonesia on Monday (21/09/2026).
Based on the examination of the two women, police discovered communications allegedly leading to a larger drug distribution network. Police also found evidence of orders allegedly placed by Jule.
So, what exactly is etomidate, and why is this substance dangerous if misused in vape liquid?
What is Etomidate?
Etomidate is a short-acting intravenous anaesthetic used to induce rapid loss of consciousness in patients. In the medical world, this drug is typically administered before surgery or emergency medical procedures. Etomidate works by providing a hypnotic effect, essentially putting the patient to sleep.
One characteristic of etomidate is its very rapid onset, working within seconds to minutes. The drug is also used in specific conditions because it has a relatively small effect on blood pressure compared to other anaesthetics.
However, the administration of etomidate must be performed by medical professionals with precise dosing and supervision. Problems arise when the substance is misused, such as by mixing it into vape liquids for inhalation.
Singapore is one of the countries that has tightened supervision of etomidate and vapes. The nation’s authorities have highlighted the use of vapes containing dangerous substances, including etomidate.
In Indonesia, authorities have also discovered the circulation of vapes containing etomidate. The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) previously seized thousands of vape cartridges known to contain the substance.
The Dangers of Etomidate in Vapes
The use of etomidate outside of medical purposes and without healthcare supervision can pose serious risks, especially when used improperly through inhalation via vapes. The following risks may arise:
Loss of consciousness: Etomidate has a rapid hypnotic effect. Misuse of the substance can cause sudden decreases in consciousness or total loss of consciousness.
Hormonal disruption: Etomidate can suppress cortisol production by affecting adrenal gland function. Cortisol is a hormone that plays a role in various bodily functions, including stress response as well as the regulation of blood pressure and metabolism.
Risk of addiction: Repeated misuse of substances with sedative or hypnotic effects can encourage dangerous usage patterns and increase the risk of dependency.
Risk of serious health complications: Using etomidate without measured doses and medical supervision can lead to various side effects. The risks become even more unpredictable when the substance is mixed into vape liquid, as users do not know the exact concentration or other ingredients contained within it.