Evolution of Erimin 5 in Singapore

Abstract

Nimetazepam, a long-acting benzodiazepine, was introduced under the trade name Erimin Corporation by Sumitomo to the market in Japan in 1977. Clandestinely produced tablets mimicking the Sumitomo Erimin brand are known as Erimin 5 by law enforcement authorities and forensic drug analysts in Singapore and Malaysia. These illicit Erimin 5 tablets closely resemble the commercial tablets (which is no longer in production) in terms of its appearance, having similar colour and size with slight variations in the tablet imprints. Its chemical composition, however, was found to be different from that of the licit tablets. In this session, the evolution of contents of Erimin 5 seized in Singapore will be presented. This includes examples of Erimin 5 found to contain designer benzodiazepines, controlled substances and new psychoactive substances (NPS). The test method used for identification of newly detected substances in Erimin 5 will also be shared.