Ketamine Category: Dissociative drugs

Ket, K, Special K, Horse Tranquiliser, Vitamin K

Ketamine is a psychedelic dissociative normally sold as a grainy white powder. It is also an anaesthetic used in human and veterinary medicine. When used as a recreational drug, it can produce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, detachment from oneself as well as psychedelic experiences.

How it’s used

When used medically it comes in liquid form. More commonly it is known in white powder form which is often offwhite and snorted. Less often people may swallow or inject.

Short-term effects

Drugs can effect each person differently. The effects will depend on personal factors such as your physical and mental health as well as the dose and potency of a substance.

The effects of ketamine are dose dependent meaning the effects are based on how much is consumed.
You could feel chilled, relaxed and happy
Some people can feel energised
You can have an ‘out of body’ experience or sense of detachment
You may have hallucinations, numbness and muscle spasms
You may feel sick or vomit
Ketamine can affect your balance and coordination

Long-term effects

Frequent use can cause depression, memory problems or lead to panic attacks

Other dangers

If inject it, ketamine may damage your veins and lead to abscesses and thrombosis
You risk HIV and hepatitis if you share needles
Emerging evidence suggests that frequent or long term use could be linked to bladder damage