Last month, concerns were raised about the long-term health problems caused by the drug. Some heavy users have had to have their bladders removed. Other users have suffered serious kidney problems, breathing difficulties, addiction and trouble with urinating. The drug also causes a heightened risk of heart attack.
Experts say ketamine is increasing in popularity with young people because it is cheaper than cocaine and the purity is often higher. It usually sells for about half the price of cocaine, at around £20 per gram. There appear to be conflicting views on the exact properties of ketamine and whether it is a depressant or stimulant. Despite being a tranquiliser, in low doses the drug is reported to act like a stimulant. At medium to high doses it can be a powerful psychedelic, making the user feel sluggish and disassociated from their body. It is known as K, special K and, because of the age of many users, kiddie smack.
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