KETAMINE/SPECIAL K/K

what is it?

Ketamine is a dissociative anaesthetic which creates an apparent detachment of the mind from the body. Chemically related to phencyclidine (PCP, Angel dust) it is widely used as a veterinary and a human anaesthetic.

Medically it is regarded as a very safe anaesthetic as it does not depress respiration. Ketamine is also used for recreational purposes.

In its pharmaceutical form, ketamine is supplied as a clear liquid for injection. However, on the streets ketamine is usually sold as a fine white crystalline powder, although tablets and liquid may sometimes be found. Ketamine may sometimes be passed off as another drug.

what are the effects?

At lower doses the effects include a sense of euphoria and may involve mild hallucinations. Physically there may be a sense of numbness and general lack of co-ordination leading to difficulty walking, standing and talking. Nausea or vomiting is not uncommon. Ketamine users also occasionally report ìflashbacksî after use.

At higher doses a full hallucinogenic effect may be experienced - the ìK Holeî. This is often experienced as a complete out of body sensation in which users may believe that they have entered another world or crossed over into another realm of consciousness.

A feeling of paralysis has been reported in which the user is fully conscious and can see but cannot move or speak. These feelings may have a spiritual or supernatural quality.

The physical effects at higher doses can include temporary blackouts and paralysis, which may occur along with loss of control over bowel and bladder movements.

what are the side effects?

A frightening awareness of the bodyís inability to move is more likely to happen when ketamine is swallowed.

The selling of ketamine as ecstasy pills has led to a number of users having bad experiences. Many of the problems around use are associated with the environment in which it is taken. A club setting may not be the most appropriate place to take ketamine. The intense psychological sensations along with physical incapacitation are best experienced in a safe environment with friends who are aware of what is being taken and who are able to look after the user.

When high on ketamine, pain cannot be felt. This may increase the risk of accidental injury. Users should therefore avoid having to travel, operate machinery, or undertake other physical tasks.

Eating or drinking prior to the use of ketamine increases the risk of choking if the user loses consciousness.

how is ketamine used?

The commonest way to use ketamine is to snort it, however it may also be swallowed or injected. When snorted, the effects come on within a minute, and last for between 20 to 40 minutes. If swallowed effects come on after about 20 minutes and last about 45-60 minutes, with some sensations lasting a couple of hours depending on the amount taken. Oral use is more likely to be associated with unpleasant frightening sensations.

what are the risks?

Illicit ketamine may not be pure or sterile and this may put the user at risk of infection from contaminants.

Users who share multi-dose vials or injecting equipment (needles, syringes, spoons, filters or other paraphernalia) run the risk of becoming infected with Hepatitis B and C and HIV.

Overdose carries the risk of heart failure or respiratory collapse, however, ketamine overdoses appear to be rare.

What is the legal position?

Ketamine is classified under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 as a Class C, Schedule 4(1) drug. It is therefore illegal to possess ketamine without a prescription, or to supply or produce it without a licence.

Illegal possession of a Class C substance can carry a sentence of up to two years in prison and a fine. Supply offences can carry a sentence of up to 14 years in prison and a fine. Sentences for drug offences depend upon the quantities involved, previous convictions and other relevant circumstances.

Being unfit to drive under the influence of any intoxicant, including ketamine, is an offence which is likely to lead to the loss of your driving licence. Getting your licence back and obtaining insurance after losing it are likely to be difficult. Ketamine is classified under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 as a Class C, Schedule 4(1) drug.

It is therefore illegal to possess ketamine without a prescription, or to supply or produce it without a licence.

Illegal possession of a Class C substance can carry a sentence of up to two years in prison and a fine. Supply offences can carry a sentence of up to 14 years in prison and a fine. Sentences for drug offences depend upon the quantities involved, previous convictions and other relevant circumstances.

Being unfit to drive under the influence of any intoxicant, including ketamine, is an offence which is likely to lead to the loss of your driving licence. Getting your licence back and obtaining insurance after losing it are likely to be difficult.

For further clarification of the current legal position please call our legal helpline or consult your solicitor.