Space Oil: The Rising Popularity of a Dangerous Drug Among Hong Kong Youth

Space oil, a potent and highly addictive drug, has become increasingly popular among Hong Kong’s youth. This drug, which contains etomidate, an anaesthetic, is often inhaled through e-cigarettes and provides a brief, euphoric high. The drug’s popularity has surged in recent months, raising concerns among authorities and social workers.

The Rise of Space Oil

Space oil has become the third most popular drug among individuals 21 and under in Hong Kong, following cannabis and cocaine. Despite being illegal, it is readily available and has become a significant concern for authorities. The drug is often sold in flavored pods, making it appealing to young users who are drawn to its fruity tastes and discreet nature.

Social workers first became aware of space oil in late 2023. The drug had been circulating in mainland China for some time, and in October of that year, Beijing authorities added etomidate to its drug regulation list. In 2024, Hong Kong authorities repeatedly warned about the rising use of space oil among local youth, cautioning that it could lure users to try other kinds of drugs.

Social welfare groups reported a total of 300 cases last year of people smoking space oil, with 226 of those being 21 and below. The youngest was just 12 years old, highlighting the drug’s alarming reach among young people.

Why Space Oil is So Popular

Space oil’s popularity can be attributed to several factors. It is relatively affordable, with a pod costing around HK$200. Its fruity flavors and discreet vaping method make it appealing to young users who want to avoid detection. Additionally, the drug’s short-acting nature provides a quick high, making it addictive and hard to control.

Wallie Kwok, a peer counselor at PS33, a drug rehabilitation and counseling service provider, noted that space oil is easy to access. Before the government’s ban, people could easily find sellers on platforms like Instagram. The drug’s appealing flavors and discreet vaping method make it hard to detect, adding to its allure.

The Dangers of Space Oil

Etomidate, the main component of space oil, is a liquid anaesthetic used in hospitals. It gives users a feeling of calm and euphoria, similar to alcohol, but without the hangover. However, its short-acting nature makes it highly addictive. The faster the effect, the easier it is for the brain to create a link between the pleasure and the drug, leading to addiction.

Users often experience blackouts and memory loss, making it dangerous to use in public places. The drug’s addictive nature can lead to severe health issues, including self-harm and mental health struggles. Chloe, a former space oil user, shared her experience of self-harm and the mental health challenges she faced.

Legal Deterrents and Social Impact

In February 2025, etomidate was officially added to the Dangerous Drug Ordinance, putting it in the same category as drugs like ketamine and cocaine. Offenders now face up to a HK$1 million fine and seven years in prison for possession, or a HK$5 million fine and life imprisonment for trafficking. Previously, offenses were punishable by a maximum fine of HK$100,000 and two years in jail.

Michael Ng, a service supervisor at PS33, believes the increased penalties could help clamp down on the supply line of space oil. However, for habitual users who already take other illegal drugs, the deterrent effect may be limited. Social workers are concerned that the ban could make it harder to identify users who need help, as they may smoke in private places rather than openly in public.

Public Health Perspective

Experts call for a public health approach to tackle drug addiction, rather than focusing solely on criminal penalties. Cindy Ng, the senior manager at KELY Support Group, emphasizes that drug use is often a coping mechanism for mental health struggles. Young people may turn to drugs to escape stress, anxiety, and depression.

Eugene Chau, a senior social work supervisor at Caritas Hugs Centre, noted that many young people struggle with anxiety and depression, leading them to use drugs as a form of escape. He emphasized the need for a holistic approach that addresses mental health and social support.

Personal Stories

Chloe, a former space oil user, shared her journey of addiction and recovery. She initially used space oil to escape from stress and family issues but eventually realized it wasn’t solving her problems. She spent around HK$1,000 to HK$2,000 every few days on space oil and hotel rooms, leading to financial strain and a criminal record.

Another user, Yumi, started using space oil to numb herself from problems at home. She became addicted and eventually quit after realizing the harm it was causing. She described the feeling of escaping from reality as a major draw of the drug.

Conclusion

Space oil’s rise in popularity among Hong Kong’s youth is a concerning trend that highlights the need for comprehensive drug education and mental health support. While legal deterrents can help, a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of drug use is essential. By tackling mental health issues and providing social support, authorities and social workers can better address the underlying problems that lead to drug addiction.

If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, it’s important to seek help. Contact local support services and consider reaching out to mental health professionals. Together, we can work towards a healthier, drug-free community.

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