Ketamine ( AKA : Special K, K, Ket Kat, jet, super acid, green, K, cat Valium )

Fact Sheet & Important Issues

• Ketamine comes in a clear liquid and a white or off-white powder form.

How is Ketamine used?

• Ketamine is a tranquilizer most commonly used on animals.
• The liquid form can be injected, consumed in drinks, or added to smokable materials.
• The powder form can be used for injection when dissolved.²
• In certain areas, Ketamine is being injected intramuscularly.³

Who uses Ketamine?

• Ketamine, along with the other "club drugs," has become popular among teens and young adults at dance clubs and "raves."

How does Ketamine get into the United States?

• Marketed as a dissociative general anesthetic for human and veterinary use, the only known source of Ketamine is via diversion of pharmaceutical products.
• Recent press reports indicate that a significant number of veterinary clinics are being robbed specifically for their Ketamine stock.
• DEA reporting indicates that a major source of Ketamine in the United States is product diverted from pharmacies in Mexico.⁴

How much does Ketamine cost?

• Prices average $20 to $25 per dosage unit.⁵

What are some consequences of Ketamine use?

• Higher doses produce an effect referred to as "K-Hole," an "out of body," or "near-death" experience.⁶
• Use of the drug can cause delirium, amnesia, depression, and long-term memory and cognitive difficulties. Due to its dissociative effect, it is reportedly used as a date-rape drug.⁷