What Is Ketamine?

Street Names: Special K, Breakfast Cereal, New Ecstasy, Vitamin K, K, Cat Valium, Raver’s Smack, K-hole, Horse tranquilizer

Ketamine was developed in the 1960’s to replace PCP as an anesthetic used on people, as well as a strong tranquilizer for animals. The majority of Ketamine found on the street is stolen from veterinarians and sold to addicts on the black market.

Often, Ketamine comes in a liquid form but is usually cooked into a powder. It’s often snorted, smoked, or injected. Ketamine is frequently used in conjunction with other drugs like ecstasy, heroin, and cocaine.

Ketamine’s Dangerous Side Effects

Ketamine can cause:

hallucinations
lost sense of time
lost sense of identity
delirium
neurosis
mental disorders
inability to move
amnesia
high blood pressure
permanent brain/memory damage
addiction
respiratory problems that can lead to death

At high doses, Ketamine produces an effect called a “K-Hole” which is described as an “out of body” or “near death” experience. Some users experiencing a “K-Hole” have actually thought they had died.

Ketamine is also sometimes used as a date-rape drug because it can create amnesia in users. The best way to prevent falling victim to a date-rape drug like Ketamine at a party, club or rave is to always keep an eye on your drink. If you are suspicious of your drink, toss out the entire thing—including the cup. Don’t allow another person to get you a fresh drink unless it comes in an unopened bottle or can. Date-rape drugs aren’t completely confined to alcoholic drinks, so if you’re the designated driver or you aren’t drinking alcohol, still keep an eye on your non-alcoholic drink.