If something goes wrong on K
Ketamine, or Special K as it is also known, is an anesthetic used in both human and veterinary procedures. Its unique hallucinogenic effect continues to make it popular among nightclub goers.
Unfortunately, like any hallucinogen, sometimes the experience can turn pear-shaped and be extremely unpleasant. Ketamine is unique in terms of hallucinogens in that it is dissociative, basically meaning that your mind leaves the body. Sometimes this can be just the effect the user is going for, but for others it can be terrifying.
This experience is often referred to as the k-hole. The k-hole is different things to different people but essentially it is when someone has used too much of the drug and go to a fairly dark place.
Many users actually report that they thought they had died or were never going to return from where they found themselves. At the least, they find it difficult to move and speak and feel very frightened. Many people who experience a k-hole never use the drug again.
Of course if you are ever in any doubt about someone’s health and safety you should seek medical assistance immediately, but for the most part most people who experience a k-hole can be looked after by friends. If you do find yourself looking after someone, do the following:
-¢ calm them and be reassuring
-¢ explain that the feeling will pass and you will stay with them
-¢ offer to take them to medical assistance and that you will be there with them
-¢ steer them clear of crowds, noisy music and bright lights
-¢ if they are hyperventilating (over-breathing) encourage them to relax, and take long, slow, deep breaths
If someone is vomiting after using any drug, make sure that you stay with them at all times. Lie them down on their side, not on their back, so they don’t choke on their vomit and keep them in a quiet, safe spot where you can monitor them.
If someone is physically sick it is important that you never leave them on their own, not even for the shortest time. It is also important that people remember that ketamine is now an illegal drug and that there are real consequences if you get caught with the substance.
Remember: If you do not want any negative consequences, do not use the drug and no matter how many times you have used a substance -“ never be blase.
