Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic drug that was first developed in the 1960s. It belongs to the class of drugs known as arylcyclohexylamines and is primarily used for inducing and maintaining anesthesia. Ketamine is also recognized for its hallucinogenic and sedative properties, making it a popular recreational drug known by various street names such as Special K, K, or Vitamin K.

Anesthesia: Ketamine is commonly used in medical and veterinary settings as an anesthetic. It induces a trance-like state, providing pain relief, sedation, and amnesia. Due to its unique properties, it is often preferred when other anesthetics may not be suitable.

Hallucinogen: Ketamine is known for inducing hallucinations and a sense of dissociation from one’s body or surroundings. These effects make it appealing to individuals seeking recreational drug experiences.

Sedative: Ketamine can cause sedation and anxiolytic effects, leading to relaxation and tranquility. This makes it a sought-after substance among those looking for stress relief or temporary escape from reality.

While ketamine can have therapeutic uses, it also poses several risks and adverse effects, especially when misused or abused. These include:

• Confusion and cognitive impairments
• Hallucinations and delirium
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Nausea, vomiting, and potential gastrointestinal issues
• Dependence and addiction with chronic use

Ketamine has also shown potential in medical research for its antidepressant and analgesic effects. It can rapidly alleviate symptoms of severe depression and has been used as an alternative treatment for individuals who do not respond to traditional antidepressant medications.