Ryutaro Huzuki, a 25-year-old professional baseball player for the Hiroshima Carp, has been indicted by the Hiroshima District Public Prosecutors Office for violating the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act. This charge stems from his reported use of a controlled substance called etomidate, commonly referred to as 'zombie tobacco'. According to the indictment, Huzuki allegedly vaporized and inhaled etomidate in his home in Hiroshima on December 16 of last year.

Huzuki was arrested by the local police on January 27, soon after which he initially denied any knowledge of the substance. However, subsequent statements revealed that he admitted to using etomidate. Investigators discovered multiple cartridges containing etomidate at his residence, including some that had been used, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.

Etomidate, known for its potential to cause loss of consciousness and muscle spasms in case of overdose, has drawn attention due to its dangerous effects. The case raises significant concerns not just for the individual player, but also for the image of professional sports in Japan, where drug use violations can lead to severe repercussions for athletes.