A “suicide capsule” that allows voluntary assisted suicide for patients is expected to be used for the first time in Switzerland.
On the 18th, various news outlets referenced the organization The Last Resort with the news that the suicide capsule, Sarco, would soon be used in Switzerland.
The Sarco capsule was first revealed to the world in 2019. It induces death by reducing the oxygen inside and exchanging it for nitrogen. Patients must go through psychological examinations before applying to use this voluntary assisted suicide machine. Once the capsule closes, medical professionals ask basic questions such as “Who they are,” “Where they are,” and more. Ultimately, a voice guide will continue the instruction.
The details regarding the first patients to utilize the machine are undetermined; however, it is expected to be used for the first time this year. The CEO of The Last Resort, Florian Wallet, noted, “There is a very high likelihood that it will be available soon as people want to use the capsule, and there has been a waiting list.”
Philip Nitschke, a euthanasia activist who invented Sarco, explained its mechanics. He said, “Pressing the button reduces oxygen levels from 21 percent to 0.05 percent within 30 seconds. This rapid decrease causes disorientation, euphoria, and loss of consciousness, followed by death within five minutes,” and warned that there is no turning back once you press the button.
In Switzerland, assisted suicide is legally allowed. However, numerous legal and ethical debates continue within Switzerland regarding the use of this capsule.
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