Ketamine: friend or foe?

Abstract

Ketamine, a dissociative anaesthetic drug, acts on the central nervous system (CNS) primarily through antagonism of the n-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor.[1] Methods of administration include intravenous, intramuscular, snorting, and smoking. [2] Intranasal use which has a very rapid onset of action is common amongst recreational users. [3] Ketamine may be used as an anti-depressant and for recovery from drug abuse.[1] Doses used in abuse are significantly higher than for therapy.[3] For recreational use the usual intranasal dose is 50 mg with abusers regularly using multiple doses to prolong intoxication.