Ket on campus: the lowdown on the high
Students at Leeds report using ketamine more than any other illicit drug, apart from cannabis. Its rising popularity might make it feel safe, but what do you really know about ketamine? Get the lowdown on the facts and risks to help you stay safer around the drug.
What actually is ketamine?
Ketamine, sometimes called ket, special K, vitamin K, super K, or kit kat, is a medicine that was developed in the 1960s as an anaesthetic. In clinical settings, it works by blocking NMDA receptors in the brain, reducing pain signals and altering perception.
Outside medical settings, ketamine is sometimes used recreationally. It most often appears as clear crystalline shards that are crushed into a white powder. It’s usually snorted, but it can also be injected. Injecting carries significantly higher risks, including infection and accidental overdose.
“If everyone’s using it, is it really that risky?”
It’s easy to assume ketamine is low risk, especially as it’s a legally-prescribed medicine in some settings. In the UK, ketamine is currently a Class B drug — the same category as cannabis — which can make it seem less serious than it is. This classification is now being reconsidered.
“Everyone talks about how it helps them chill, but there’s another side to that line of ketamine.” — Forward Leeds
Ketamine’s effects can vary, but people often report:
- Feeling relaxed
- Sensations of euphoria
- Detachment or floatiness
- Altered sensory perception, coordination, or memory
That might sound fun, but ketamine also causes:
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
In high doses, the drug can lead to a state known as a “K-hole”, which makes you feel extremely detached or unable to move or communicate.
With frequent or heavy use, ketamine can cause serious long-term harm, particularly to your bladder and kidneys. Found out more about the risks of Ketamine.
Tips to stay safe
The safest choice is not to use illicit drugs. If you choose to take ketamine, there are ways to reduce the harm:
Go small
Know how much you’re taking by using simple measuring tools. Try a smaller amount first, especially with material you haven’t used before.
Don’t mix
Mixing ketamine with alcohol or other substances that slow the body down increases the risk of blackouts, loss of awareness, and accidents.
Stay hydrated
Drink water during the day and evening but avoid drinking excessive amounts in a short time.
Test what you take
Re-agent testing kits can help identify substances and detect unexpected additives. This does not guarantee safety but can reduce some risks.
Rinse your nose after use
If ketamine is taken through the nose, gently rinsing with clean water later can reduce irritation. Avoid sharing equipment to limit infection risks.
Spit the drip
After using ketamine through the nose, some of the residue can run down your throat into your stomach. This can cause irritation and contribute to bladder problems. Spitting out any residue rather than swallowing it can help reduce this.
Take a break
Give your body time to recover to reduce the chance of long-term health problems.
Look after each other
Use in a safe setting with trusted people. A sober or less affected friend can provide support if someone becomes confused or unresponsive.
Watch out for warning signs
Seek medical help if you experience bladder pain, blood in your urine, difficulty urinating, persistent abdominal pain, or new problems with sexual function.
Any illicit drug can be contaminated with things you weren’t expecting. Ketamine has even been found contaminated with synthetic opioids, which can be up to 500 times stronger than heroin.
Need support or have a question?
If you, or someone you know, wants more information, support or advice about ketamine, other drugs, and alcohol, you can:
- Visit the University drugs and alcohol page for information, support options and policy details.
- Get in touch with Forward Leeds directly for confidential advice and support. You don’t have to be in crisis to reach out — even if you just want more information about safer use, effects, or harm reduction, they’re there to help. You can also catch Forward Leeds at on-campus drop-in sessions.
