Ketamine

Ketamine is used by medical practitioners and veterinarians as an anesthetic. It is sometimes used illegally by people to get high. Ketamine can produce hallucinogenic effects, causing a person to see, hear, smell, feel or taste things that aren’t really there or are different from how they are in reality. When it’s sold illegally, ketamine usually comes as a white crystalline powder. It can also be made into tablets and pills or dissolved in a liquid. A number of clinical trials and studies are currently being undertaken to assess ketamine as a treatment for depression, early indications are showing good results.

Ketamine Overdose

Dangerous Signs:

If you take a large amount or have a strong batch, you could overdose. If you have any of the symptoms below, call an ambulance straight away by dialing 999 or 112:

  • Inability to move, rigid muscles
  • High body temperature, fast heartbeat
  • Convulsions
  • Coma and ‘near death’ experiences

Coming Down:

Coming down In the day following ketamine use, you may experience:

  • Memory loss
  • Impaired judgement, disorientation
  • Clumsiness
  • Aches and pains
  • Depression

Ketamine Bladder Syndrome

Large, repeated doses of ketamine may eventually cause ‘ketamine bladder syndrome’, a painful condition needing ongoing treatment. Symptoms include difficulty holding in urine, incontinence, which can cause ulceration in the bladder. Anyone suffering from ketamine bladder syndrome needs to stop using ketamine and see a health professional.

Side Effects of
Ketamine

There is no safe level of drug use. Use of any drug always carries risk.

The effects of taking Ketamine with other drugs including over-the-counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous.