Slang or Street Names: Special K, K, Kat, Vitamin K

History: Developed in the 1960's, Ketamine is an injectible anesthetic approved for use in animals. Manufactured in liquid form under the brand names of Ketaset, Ketalar, Vetalar and Ketajet, Ketamine is used by veterinarians in medical settings.

Identification: Ketamine abuse surfaced in the early 1970's when it was realized that it caused hallucinations and other reactions similar to those associated with Phencyclidine (PCP). Ketamine is abused in liquid form or is converted to a white powder that is often snorted or smoked with marijuana or tobacco.

Effects: Ketamine use can result in impaired attention, learning ability, and memory, often providing the user with a loss of inhibition. Other effects include delirium, amnesia, impaired motor function, high blood pressure, depression, and fatal respiratory problems.