Ketamine - advice for staying safe
This page will give you basic information about ketamine, its effects, and how to stay safe if you or someone you know is using it. If you are looking for support right away, you can speak to someone via our webchat, or reach out to your local service.
Understanding ketamine
Ketamine (ket) is a dissociative drug that affects the mind and body. It is usually a grainy white powder that can be snorted, swallowed or sometimes injected.
How it feels
You might feel disconnected from your body and surroundings and have an altered sense of reality. It can seem like it’s hard to move.
In high doses, you might have an out-of-body experience known as a K-hole. Some people seek out this feeling - for others it can be scary.
The effects of ketamine can last between 45 minutes and two hours, depending on how much you take, and how you take it.
If you notice any symptoms after using ketamine, seek medical advice straight away.
Getting support with ketamine
If you want to take steps to address your drug use, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. You’re not alone and there's nothing to be ashamed of. There is lots of help and support available. Speak to you doctor about how you’re feeling and speak to supportive family and friends if you can.
Advice and support are always available from your local Change Grow Live service. If you’re struggling with drugs or alcohol, we’re here to help.
You can also use our online webchat to speak to someone and get advice straight away.
Ketamine and the law
Ketamine is a Class B drug. This means you can be arrested and charged for having ketamine in your possession.
For possessing ketamine, you could get an unlimited fine, up to five years in prison, or both. If you give it to someone else, even for free, or if there is evidence that you intend to give ketamine to someone else (such as carrying larger quantities), you could get up to 14 years prison, an unlimited fine, or both.
There are also laws against drug driving like there are for drink driving.
The risks of ketamine
Ketamine is often viewed as safer because the comedown can be more manageable than with MDMA or cocaine. But that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free, and the comedown will depend on how much you use.
It is also particularly dangerous when mixed with other substances, including alcohol and prescription drugs
Side effects and risks
- Severe bladder damage, leading to incontinence
- Paranoia, depression and memory loss
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting: particularly if taken on a full stomach
- Breathing issues
- Seizures: these are rare but serious
- Increased blood pressure: this puts strain on your organs
Regular use can also cause rapid weight loss. This can make you feel exhausted and weaken your immune system
Keeping yourself safer
There are ways to reduce the risks and side effects of using ketamine:
- Don’t eat 90 minutes before using. This will reduce your risk of vomiting.
- Never mix ketamine with any other substances, including prescribed medications. Find out how ketamine interacts with other substances on the Drugs and Me website.
- Stay hydrated. Drink water before, during and after taking ketamine to reduce bladder damage - but no more than half to one pint per hour.
- Never take ketamine to ease bladder pain. This will cause more harm.
- Go low and slow. Start with small amounts, spaced apart, to see how it affects you.
- Don’t use alone. Stay with a trusted friend in case things go wrong.
- Crush powder finely to reduce damage to your nasal passage.
- Don’t share snorting equipment. Shared or unclean equipment can transmit diseases.
- Avoid using ketamine if you are feeling anxious or low.
What to do if someone's unwell on ketamine
If someone is unconscious or having trouble breathing:
- Call 999 immediately. Don’t worry. The ambulance will only involve police if a death is reported, or if the paramedics are at risk.
- Use naloxone, the overdose reversal drug. It could save their life if the ketamine is contaminated.
- Put them in the recovery position: On their side, airway open (see this quick NHS guide if you need a reminder).
- Stay with them until help arrives.
Remember: If you or your mates are using ketamine, you can pick up free naloxone from your local Change Grow Live service or other local drug service.