A ‘suicide capsule’ will soon be used for the first time, allowing a painless death within 10 minutes of administration.
Sarco is a 3D printed capsule, also known as the Tesla Euthanasia. Despite technological advances, its creators have been accused of “glorifying” suicide and could face serious legal trouble.
Known as “Dr. Death,” Dr. Philip Nitschke said the first patient started using the Sarco capsule in Switzerland. He also noted that the capsule could be delivered anywhere in the world: “It could be an idyllic outdoor location or the premises of an assisted suicide organization.”
Swiss media reported the willingness to use the Sarco capsule, but prosecutor Peter Sticher warned that anyone who helps a patient use such capsules could be sentenced to up to five years in prison.
According to Dr. Philip Nitschke, founder of Exit International, works the Sarco capsule by filling a chamber with nitrogen, causing oxygen levels to rapidly drop to the point that a person loses consciousness almost immediately. This process begins within the first minute and after 10 minutes a “peaceful, safe and drug-free” death occurs.
The Exit International team says Sarco’s capsules can be activated using voice control or eye movements, making them accessible to people with serious medical conditions and mobility limitations who are unable to communicate with their voice.
Sarco modules, which are activated by a button, flashing light or gesture, also feature an emergency button and provide an escape route if the user changes their mind.
“There is no reliable information about the killing method. It is completely unclear who controls any mechanical process during the dying process,” Stitcher said.
Swiss law, including Article 115 of the Criminal Code, allows assisted suicide, provided the motivation is not personal gain or selfishness.
