Illicit use of ketamine in Scotland.

Twenty illicit ketamine users in Scotland, who had used a wide range of illegal drugs, were interviewed. Ketamine was usually obtained through diversion from legitimate sources. A standard dose was typically 1/8 gram, taken intranasally, producing an intense, dissociative experience lasting about one hour. Three participants reported extensive use, indicating potential for psychological dependence. All participants used ketamine in carefully preplanned settings emphasizing comfort and security. They identified problems from using the drug in public or unfamiliar surroundings and noted that novice users may lack knowledge about the intensity of the experience. Accurate information about ketamine's effects and the importance of set and setting should be made available, but publicizing the drug should be avoided.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Semistructured interviews were carried out with 20 illicit users of ketamine in Scotland. Participants had used a wide range of illegal drugs. Scottish drug agencies reported limited contact with ketamine users; however, subjects were knowledgeable regarding the licit purpose of ketamine, its effects, and its legal status. Ketamine was usually obtained through diversion from legitimate sources. Three participants reported extensive use, indicating the potential for psychological dependence. A standard dose of ketamine was typically 1/8 g, usually taken intranasally. Participants reported the ketamine experience as being extremely intense and dissociative, usually lasting for approximately one hour. All participants reported using ketamine in a carefully preplanned setting, emphasizing comfort, security, and familiarity. Participants identified potential problems arising from using ketamine in a public place, or in unfamiliar surroundings, and also suggested that novice users may encounter problems through lack of knowledge concerning the intense nature of the experience. Accurate information concerning the effects and nature of ketamine as well as the importance of set and setting should be made available. However, publicizing the drug should be avoided as widespread interest could cause greater problems than currently exist.