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9 people develop skin blisters, ulcers from unregistered medicines bought from Geylang peddlers or friends
HSA urges the public to avoid purchasing or using modafinil and armodafinil from illegal, unknown, unregistered or unreliable sources.
Joshua Lee

March 10, 2025, 06:57 PM



Warning: This article contains content and images that some may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised.
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has issued a strong warning against the unauthorised use of modafinil and armodafinil after nine individuals were hospitalised with serious skin reactions over the past year.
According to the HSA, the affected individuals, seven men and two women aged 18 to 57, had purchased the drugs from street peddlers in Geylang or received them from friends.
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Many reportedly took the drugs to enhance alertness and boost energy without medical supervision.
Severe and life-threatening reactions
Of the nine cases, six individuals developed Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), a dangerous condition characterised by painful blistering and peeling of the skin.
One patient in his 40s experienced severe oral ulcers, making it difficult for him to eat or speak.
Three others suffered from toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), a more severe form of SJS, where blistering rashes spread across the body.
These are stock photos of toxic epidermal necrolysis, provided by the HSA courtesy of the National Skin Centre:


One male patient in his 20s had blistering on 60 per cent of his body, including his face, chest, and genitals.
Fortunately, all affected individuals are recovering, and no fatalities have been reported.
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Unauthorised use of drugs presents health risks and legal consequences
Modafinil and armodafinil, which are not registered in Singapore, are used in some countries to treat conditions like narcolepsy but require strict medical supervision.
HSA warned that these drugs can cause severe skin reactions, heart problems, psychiatric disorders, and even dependency due to their stimulant properties.
Lee Haur Yueh, a senior consultant at Singapore General Hospital, emphasised the risks:
"Although SJS and TEN are rare, they are life-threatening and can lead to widespread skin damage and in severe cases, organ failure.
The fact that we are seeing a significant number of cases from armodafinil and modafinil suggests that the risk associated with these medicines is particularly high.
These medicines should only be taken when prescribed by a doctor and with proper medical supervision to ensure patient safety."
Reminders to Singapore consumers
HSA also reminded Singapore consumers that the unauthorised sale and distribution of these drugs is illegal. Offenders may face fines of up to S$50,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both under the Health Products Act.
HSA urges the public to:
- Avoid purchasing or using modafinil and armodafinil from illegal, unknown, unregistered or unreliable sources.
- Seek appropriate medical advice if you have medical conditions e.g., excessive sleepiness that affects your level of alertness or ability to focus.
- Refrain from sharing or supplying potent prescription medicines to friends or relatives.
Individuals with information on illegal sales of these drugs are encouraged to report to HSA’s Enforcement Branch.