Bangkok: Government rushes to deal with e-cigarettes, warns of "zombie cigarettes" containing anesthetic drugs, found to be prevalent in tourist areas and illegally sold online Mr. Anukul Prueksanusak, deputy government spokesman, revealed that the government prioritizes the policy of suppressing drugs, including e-cigarettes and devices, which have been found in large quantities, and has expedited action to deal with groups of offenders and punish those involved, including police officers and those who neglect to allow illegal imports from abroad. According to Thai News Agency, drug dealers have developed new drug formulas, or so-called 'home-made drugs,' to lure new and old users into trying drugs. Although the government is strict in suppressing drugs, the spread of drugs continues. The latest data shows the spread of 'zombie cigarettes' in the entertainment area of Thonglor. For 'zombie cigarettes', they contain etomidate, a medical anesthetic. If used incorrectly like a drug, it can cause severe drows iness, a reduced respiratory rate, or dangerously slow breathing, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and loss of consciousness, which can lead to death. Please do not believe the promises that it is safe or that trying it once is fine. In addition to being prevalent in entertainment venues, it has also been illegally sold online and in various gathering places, often claiming to help you relax and sleep well. 'Zombie cigarettes' are e-cigarettes that have been mixed with Etomidate to act like drugs. E-cigarettes have many negative effects on the health of smokers. The more drugs and substances are mixed in, the more dangerous it becomes. Even after quitting smoking, it still has a long-term effect on the hormones in the adrenal glands, causing the body to be unable to produce the hormone Cortisol, resulting in abnormal muscle function. 'I would like to warn teenagers and the general public who are thinking of trying out 'zombie cigarettes' or e-cigarettes that have been mixed with drugs and ot her substances to be aware of the possible dangers. The most serious case could be death. There is no way to know what substances the seller intentionally mixed in and how much. Do not believe the promise that it is safe or not. Try it once and it will be fine. Parents should closely monitor their children's behavior, especially if they spend more money, show unusual drowsiness, change in their group of friends, isolate themselves or hide in the room. If you find these behaviors, you must immediately talk to them with love and understanding and tell them about the dangers that will follow,' said Mr. Anukul.
