Substance Abuse And Ketamine

 

Ketamine is a type of anesthetic. It is occasionally used for medical purposes in humans, but is more commonly used for sedating large animals such as horses. Some drug users use it to distort reality. On the streets, the drug is typically referred to by names such as K, Special K or vitamin K.

Why Do People Take Ketamine?

Ketamine doesn't just sedate you, it can cause a person to trip. This can involve sensations such as floating or a feeling of being detached from the world. Some users refer to this effect as "going through the k hole".

Some people will also experience a visual or auditory hallucination. This can last for anything from 30 minutes up until around 6 hours.

What Are The Risks Of Using Special K?

Many people find the experience of taking ketamine very unpleasant. It can leave a person feeling very confused about what is going on around them, and psychosis can result from the hallucinations.

Ketamine abuse can damage both the short term and the long term memory, and some scientific studies have shown it to have a strong link with the development of anxiety, panic disorders or depression.

When ketamine is taken illegally, rather than being used properly by a medical professional, there is a very serious risk of damage to the urinary tract. This can make it very difficult to urinate and can be extremely painful. In the worst case scenario, surgery may be needed to correct the problem.

This type of substance abuse has also been linked with many deaths. This usually occurs when the drug has been taken with alcohol or other drugs, and is due to impaired heart function.

You can learn more about tackling ketamine from your family doctor. If you have an addiction it is very important to seek help.