What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic drug that was first synthesized in 1962. It is commonly used for anesthesia during surgery and pain management. It is also known for its illicit use as a recreational drug due to its hallucinogenic and dissociative effects.

History of Ketamine

Ketamine was first synthesized in 1962 by Calvin L. Stevens, a chemistry professor at Wayne State University. It was initially used as a veterinary anesthetic before it was introduced for human use in the 1970s. It was later discovered to have hallucinogenic properties and was used for recreational purposes, leading to its classification as a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States.

Chemistry of Ketamine

Ketamine is a synthetic compound with a chemical formula of C13H16ClNO. It is a racemic mixture, which means it contains both R and S enantiomers. It is a dissociative anesthetic, which means it induces a state of detachment from one's surroundings.

Pharmacology of Ketamine

Ketamine works by blocking the NMDA receptor, which is responsible for regulating pain perception, learning, and memory. It also affects the release of various neurotransmitters, including dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. At low doses, ketamine can induce a sense of dissociation and euphoria, while at higher doses, it can cause anesthesia and complete dissociation from one's surroundings.

Positive Effects of Ketamine

Ketamine has several positive effects when used therapeutically. It has been used as an anesthetic for surgery and as a pain management tool. It has also been used to treat depression, anxiety, and PTSD. It has been shown to be particularly effective in treating treatment-resistant depression. It is also used in veterinary medicine as an anesthetic for animals.

Negative Effects of Ketamine

Ketamine has several negative effects when used improperly. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. At high doses, it can cause respiratory depression and even death. It can also cause hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions. Long-term use of ketamine can lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and bladder and kidney damage. It can also lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms.

Recreational Use of Ketamine

Ketamine is often used recreationally for its dissociative and hallucinogenic effects. It is usually snorted or injected, and the effects can last from 20 minutes to several hours, depending on the dosage. Recreational use of ketamine can be dangerous and can lead to addiction, injury, or even death.

Medicinal Use of Ketamine

Ketamine is used for medical purposes as an anesthetic and pain management tool. It is also used to treat depression, anxiety, and PTSD. It has been shown to be particularly effective in treating treatment-resistant depression. It is also used in veterinary medicine as an anesthetic for animals.

Combinations with Ketamine

Ketamine is often used in combination with other drugs, such as MDMA or cocaine, to enhance the effects of the drug or to counteract the negative effects of another drug. Combining drugs can be dangerous and can lead to unpredictable effects.

Addiction and Harm Potential of Ketamine

Ketamine has a high potential for addiction, particularly when used recreationally. Long-term use of ketamine can lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and bladder and kidney damage. It can also lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms. Ketamine is a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States due to its potential for abuse and addiction.

Warnings about Ketamine

Use Ketamine should only be used under the supervision of a qualified medical professional. Recreational use of ketamine can be dangerous and can lead to addiction, injury, or even death. It is important to use caution when using ketamine and to avoid using it in combination with other drugs.