✨ Ketamine
Source: Harm Reduction Victoria · DanceWize Victoria SSB
Overview
Ketamine is a dissociative anaesthetic used medically and recreationally, producing pain relief, sedation and intense out-of-body experiences at higher doses.
Ketamine is a dissociative drug with analgesic (pain-relieving) and anaesthetic properties, developed in the mid-1960s and used in veterinary and human anaesthesia as well as for therapeutic and recreational purposes. Ketamine is usually sold as a fine crystalline powder for recreational use, but can occasionally be in liquid form. At higher doses, ketamine produces the 'K-hole' — a state of complete dissociation involving out-of-body experiences, intense visuals and dreamlike states.
Unlike classic psychedelics, ketamine creates a sense of total disconnection from the body and surroundings. Long-term or heavy use can cause serious bladder damage ('Ketamine Bladder Syndrome').
Safer Using
Remember 'Set' and 'Setting' shape the dissociative experience as much as the drug Use around trusted people; have a sober trip sitter at higher doses Be seated — high doses severely impair coordination Start very small — doses range widely from 15 to 300 mg; gauge strength before redosing If redosing, wait at least 2 hours Wait at least 30 minutes after eating before using When snorting: crush to fine powder; snort water before and after; use your own straw; alternate nostrils When injecting: use sterile equipment; never share needles, water or filters
⚠ Avoid Combining With
DANGEROUS: Alcohol (nausea, vomiting and serious effects at higher doses); GHB, opioids, benzos and other depressants (loss of consciousness, respiratory failure, death). CAUTIOUS: Amphetamines, cocaine and other stimulants (elevated blood pressure); Psychedelics (both experiences may amplify to uncomfortable intensity); MAOIs (intensifies psychedelic experience). Not recommended with: heart conditions, high blood pressure, a history of psychosis, or known bladder problems.
🚨 If Things Go Wrong
Roadside saliva tests do not detect ketamine. Driving while impaired is illegal — wait at least 24 hours. If unconscious, place in the recovery position.
Call 000 in an emergency. If urinary symptoms develop (urgency, pain, frequent urination), stop use and see a doctor — Ketamine Bladder Syndrome can cause irreversible damage.
Effects
Analgesia and numbness, increased energy Ataxia (loss of motor coordination), slightly increased heart rate Dilated pupils, slurred speech Dissociation of mind from body Open and closed-eye visuals, sense of calm and serenity Out-of-body experiences, amnesia and the 'K-hole' Anxiety, panic, paranoia and confusion Nausea, vomiting, urinary tract symptoms Long-term: psychological dependency, cognitive impairment, severe bladder damage
Dose & Duration
Snorted (15–60 mg per dose), injected (IV or IM), or shelved (rarely). For ketamine when snorted: Total Duration 1–2 hours; Onset 5–15 minutes; Peak 20–60 minutes; Coming Down 30–60 minutes; After Effects 1–3 hours. Even after apparent effects pass, ketamine remains active for 6–12 hours.
Drug testing: Urine 1–4 days; Hair up to 90 days; Blood up to 2 days.