ILLICIT USE OF KETAMINE IN SCOTLAND

Semistructured interviews were carried out with 20 illicit users of ke tamine in Scotland. Participants had used a wide range of illegal drug s. Scottish drug agencies reported limited contact with ketamine users ; however, subjects were knowledgeable regarding the licit purpose of ketamine, its effects, and its legal status. Ketamine was usually obta ined through diversion from legitimate sources. Three participants rep orted extensive use, indicating the potential for psychological depend ence. A standard dose of ketamine was typically 1/8 g, usually taken i ntranasally. Participants reported the ketamine experience as king ext remely intense and dissociative, usually lasting for approximately one hour. An participants reported using ketamine in a carefully preplann ed setting, emphasizing comfort, security, and familiarity. Participan ts identified potential problems arising from using ketamine in a publ ic place, or in unfamiliar surroundings, and also suggested that novic e users may encounter problems through lack of knowledge concerning th e intense nature of the experience. Accurate information concerning th e effects and nature of ketamine as well as the importance of set and setting should be made available. However, publicizing the drug should be avoided as widespread interest could cause greater problems than-c urrently exist.