This ketamine information briefing has been designed to raise awareness of ketamine-related harms among health professionals and to support with conversations that help people access the support they need.

Ketamine is a dissociative drug with painkilling effects. Availability of ketamine and its use have both increased in recent years in the UK, particularly among young people. Ketamine, often known as ket or K, is usually found as a white crystalline powder or liquid. It is typically snorted but may also be swallowed or injected. It is a class B drug.

Effects - The effects of ketamine are usually felt within minutes and can last for a few hours. Ketamine makes people feel detached from themselves and their surroundings. Some people report feeling euphoric, relaxed or floaty. High doses of ketamine bring on an intense disconnection from reality, sometimes known as a ‘K-hole’. People may not be able to move or respond in a normal way...