Ketamine, or Ket, a popular recreational drug with a growing reputation, has a complex history as both a medical miracle and a party drug.

While its use as a powerful anaesthetic and promising treatment for mental health disorders has garnered attention, recreational use of ketamine remains a controversial topic.

We shed light on the effects of ketamine on the human body when used recreationally, discussing the risks and potential benefits involved.

History and Background

Ketamine was first synthesized in 1962 by Dr. Calvin L. Stevens as a safer alternative to phencyclidine (PCP) for anesthesia purposes.

Initially used for veterinary and human surgical procedures, it became popular for its rapid onset and short duration of action. However, ketamine's dissociative and hallucinogenic effects quickly caught the attention of recreational users, which led to its classification as a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States.

How Ketamine Works

Ketamine primarily works by blocking the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, a key player in the transmission of electrical signals between neurons. By doing so, ketamine disrupts communication between different areas of the brain, leading to a unique sensory experience. This state of dissociation, often referred to as a "K-hole," is characterized by a temporary disconnection from one's surroundings, body, and even sense of self.

The Highs

Recreational users of ketamine often report feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and heightened sensory perception. Some users also experience vivid hallucinations and an enhanced imagination, which can lead to creative breakthroughs or spiritual experiences. These effects have contributed to ketamine's popularity in party and festival settings.

The Lows

The negative effects of ketamine use are not to be underestimated. Short-term risks include dizziness, nausea, impaired motor function, and memory loss. High doses of ketamine can lead to dangerously slowed breathing, seizures, and even comas. The dissociative nature of the drug can also make users more prone to accidents and injuries.

Long-term consequences of recreational ketamine use can be severe. Prolonged use has been associated with cognitive impairment, bladder damage, and addiction. In some cases, chronic use can lead to a condition known as "ketamine bladder syndrome," which causes severe pain, incontinence, and irreversible damage to the urinary tract.

Harm Reduction

While complete abstinence is the safest approach to avoiding the negative effects of ketamine, harm reduction strategies can help reduce risks for those who choose to use the drug recreationally. These strategies include:

Starting with a low dose and avoiding frequent use to reduce the risk of addiction and physical harm.

Using ketamine in a safe and familiar environment with a trusted friend or sober sitter present to avoid accidents and injuries.

Staying hydrated and practicing good hygiene to minimize the risk of bladder damage.

Seeking medical attention immediately if experiencing severe side effects or signs of addiction.

Ketamine's impact on the human body is complex and multifaceted. While some users report positive experiences, the risks associated with recreational use should not be ignored.

Understanding the potential consequences of ketamine use is crucial for making informed decisions and minimizing harm, check out some of the effects of Ket below.

Effects of ketamine on the human body (This is not an exhaustive list!)

• Hallucinations

• Illusions

• Distorted sense of time

• Feeling of floating

• Being outside of one's body

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Nightmares

• Vivid dreams

• Illusions

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Insomnia

• Fatigue

• Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable

• Changes in appetite

• Weight gain or loss

• Ketamine can also cause a number of more serious side effects, including:

• Seizures

• Coma

• Death

• Jaundice

• Liver failure

• Kidney failure

• Ketamine can also be addict

So, before you line up the K at your next house party just consider the above.

Be safe ravers.