Ketamine

The amount taken will strongly determine the extent and type of effect the drug will have. Common effects associated with ketamine include happiness, disorientation, confusion, reduced muscle control and paralysis. Vivid hallucinations and a sense of separation from the body are also commonly reported. Larger doses may induce an experience that is known as ‘K-holing’. This experience is often described as a feeling of detachment from reality as though travelling along a tunnel.

Ketamine may be bought as a clear liquid or as white powder/crystals. It is also available in tablet form.

Ketamine in powder form can be snorted in lines or wrapped in paper and swallowed, (known as ‘bombing’). It can also be swallowed as a tablet and is occasionally injected.

• Ketamine can cause confusion, agitation and powerful hallucinogenic effects which some users find very unpleasant.
• Its effects may result in more risky behaviour, which may lead to physical injury. As ketamine is able to block pain very effectively, those under the influence of this drug may not be aware of the seriousness of any injuries sustained.
• Regular use has been linked to severe bladder problems. Frequent trips to the toilet and pain whilst urinating have often been reported. Severe cases have resulted in the surgical removal of the bladder.
• Stomach pains, known as ‘K-cramps’, have been associated with long term use.
• Regular use has been linked to mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.
• You increase the risk to yourself if you combine ketamine with alcohol or other substances. Do not mix with alcohol – this greatly increases the risks associated with ketamine use such as accidents or assaults.
• Try not to use it alone, especially when outside.
• Avoid taking baths when using ketamine – there is a risk of drowning even in a shallow bath.
• Keep hydrated - this can help reduce damage to bladder and kidneys caused by ketamine.

• If you choose to use ketamine, then use it in a safe environment and in the company of someone you trust. Ideally, this person will not have used the substance themselves and will be in a position to get help if things go wrong.
• Take small amounts first to test strength and effects, start low and go slow.
• Ketamine can be habit forming and tolerance can build up quickly. Don’t use too frequently and take regular breaks.
• If you experience pain in your bladder, then seek medical help and inform them you use ketamine.
• If snorting, alternate nostrils and clean your nostrils with warm water to minimise damage.

Before Using Ketamine

Try to eat before using ketamine, as it supresses the appetite. Light foods such as salad or fruit can be easier to eat. Yoghurt can be good for the stomach and is also easy to eat. Think about your surroundings – are there any potential dangers? Busy roads, rivers or water and things you can fall from, such as a cliff edge, can be risky. Consider who you are with – anything can happen if you go into a K-hole, so being around people you trust is important.

Cooking Ketamine

When ketamine comes in crystals, or shards, it needs to be cooked. Crystals cause much more damage to the body as it is more corrosive. You do not lose any ketamine through cooking it – one gram of crystals will weigh one gram of powder after cooking. Crystals should be dissolved in a small amount of boiling water. It doesn’t matter if you accidentally use too much water – it will be evaporated when cooking. It just means it will take slightly longer to cook.

Microwave

Get 2 plates the same size. Put the dissolved ketamine on one plate and put the second plate on top as a lid. Heat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, then check every minute. When the liquid has gone, allow the plates to cool before scraping both with a card.

Hob

Use an UNUSED frying pan and heat on a medium heat on the hob. The water will start bubbling and eventually turn into a white solid. You can usually tell if it is cooked as the popping noises will stop. Allow the pan to cool then scrape the white solid from the pan with an old bank card or similar, the crush it up to form a powder.

Things to be aware of

Clean out your nose after using. The nose can become dry so putting small amounts of water or a gentle moisturiser can make it more comfortable.

Try to avoid picking scabs if you have them in your nose - this can cause more damage.

If you have taken a break from ketamine, use small amounts first as your tolerance may have dropped.

Cranberry juice is good for the urinary tract and can reduce the acidity of urine, which helps if you are struggling to go. This should not replace water.