WHAT IS KETAMINE?
WHY IT EXISTS...
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic originally developed in the 1960s and used medically for anesthesia and pain relief. Chemically, it is made through several steps starting with cyclohexanone. Medically, ketamine is commonly used for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia, particularly in emergency settings due to its fast-acting nature and ability to preserve airway reflexes. It is also used in lower doses for managing chronic pain.
HOW IT IS USED RECREATIONALLY...
Ketamine is used recreationally in the UK primarily for its dissociative and hallucinogenic effects, which can make users feel detached from their body and surroundings, sometimes described as entering a “K-hole.” At lower doses, it can induce feelings of euphoria, floating, or altered perception, while higher doses may lead to profound disconnection and vivid hallucinations. The effects typically begin within minutes when snorted and can last around 30 to 60 minutes, though residual effects may linger for a few hours. Recreational use is common in clubbing scenes, music festivals, and house parties, especially in underground or rave environments where users seek intense sensory experiences.
WHEN IT SHOULD BE USED...
In the UK, ketamine should be accessible only to qualified professionals, including doctors, anaesthetists, and veterinarians. It is used medically for anesthesia, acute chronic pain management, and by vets for surgical procedures on animals. Prescriptions should only be given by licensed specialists, with strict regulation to ensure safe and appropriate use.