'Space oil drug’ renamed etomidate

July 31, 2025

Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung:
When we look at the increase in drug offences, for the first half of 2025 we have 591 cases of serious drug offences. Among those drug (cases), one-fourth of them is relating to etomidate. 

Previously we called it “space oil drug”, and some of the drug traffickers make use of the name to promote a sort of fantasy and some positive feelings after taking drugs. I think this is absolutely wrong. 

Etomidate only brings you harm. It will make you behave abnormally, and will cause (defacement) in your appearance, such as losing hair. I think we have to properly name it as etomidate.

The "space oil drug" has officially been renamed as etomidate to help promote anti-drug messages, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung said today.

Mr Tang made the announcement when he spoke to the media this afternoon after attending the Fight Crime Committee meeting and explained the reason behind giving the dangerous drug a new name.

“When we look at the increase in drug offences, for the first half of 2025 we have 591 cases of serious drug offences. Among those drug (cases), one-fourth of them is relating to etomidate.

“Previously we called it ‘space oil drug’, and some of the drug traffickers make use of the name to promote a sort of fantasy and some positive feelings after taking drugs. I think this is absolutely wrong.

“Etomidate only brings you harm. It will make you behave abnormally, and will cause (defacement) in your appearance, such as losing hair. I think we have to properly name it as etomidate."