The use of club drugs fluctuates from year to year, and although right now the use of club drugs like ketamine is down, it is still important for parents to know the facts about this drug.
What is it?
Ketamine, also known as “Special K” and “K,” is a club drug that is a dissociative anesthetic. This drug, originally designed for human use, is now widely used by veterinarians for surgery on pets. Ketamine is similar to PCP, DXM, and nitrous oxide.
What does it look like?
Ketamine is a powdered substance, generally white or off white in color. This can make it very difficult to discern from other white powdered drugs like cocaine, MDMA, and even some types of heroin. Ketamine can also come in pill form when intended for human use.
How is it used?
Ketamine is most commonly snorted, but it can also be injected.
What are users looking for?
Ketamine separates perception from sensation in all doses. With low doses, users are looking for a dreamy feeling with numb extremities. Keep in mind that ketamine is a dissociatve anesthetic, meaning at full effect it takes the user out of their own body. In high doses, ketamine can be hallucinogenic. Users can feel far from their body.
Is it addictive?
There has been evidence that ketamine can cause cravings and a tolerance. Some users will binge on ketamine like amphetamine users do.
Is it illegal?
Ketamine is illegal as a Schedule III drug in the United States. To fall into this category, a drug must meet the following three criteria:
- Has a potential for abuse less than the drugs or other substances in Schedules I and II
- Has a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States
- May lead to moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence
Just because a drug is Schedule III, however, doesn’t mean that it isn’t highly illegal. A teen found in possession of ketamine can still face serious legal consequences.
How common is teen ketamine use?
Very few teens are using ketamine, according to reports. About one percent of varying age groups are using the drug.
How can I tell if my teen is using drugs?
There are many signs of teen drug use, most of which are explained here. Things to look for include:
- Moodiness
- Depression
- Truancy
- A new peer group that exhibits bad behavior
- Secretiveness
- Being unusually tired
- Drop in grades
- Possession of drug paraphernalia (needles, bongs, rolling papers, bowls, grinders, cut up straws, rolled up dollar bills, etc.)
If you suspect that your teen could be engaging in drug use or other dangerous behaviors, it could be time for you to seek help from an outside source. One great source of help for at-risk teens are Christian boarding schools. At these boarding schools, students are rehabilitated through a time-tested and individualized program consisting of both discipline and reward. Students receive the love and guidance they need to transition from a troubled teen into an emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually healthy young adult.
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