What does ketamine feel like?

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic and a hallucinogenic drug that can produce a range of effects, and how it feels can vary widely depending on the dose, individual sensitivity, and the context in which it is used. It's important to note that ketamine is a controlled substance, and its use outside of medical or therapeutic contexts can be illegal and dangerous. If you are prescribed ketamine by a medical professional for a specific condition, you should follow their guidance carefully.

Here are some common subjective experiences associated with ketamine use:

1. Disassociation: Ketamine is known for its strong dissociative effects. Users may feel disconnected from their body and surroundings, leading to a sense of floating or detachment. This can be experienced as a dreamlike state where individuals lose track of time and space.
2. Euphoria: Ketamine can induce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and a sense of well-being. Some people describe it as a blissful or tranquil experience.
3. Altered Perception: Users often report changes in sensory perception, such as distorted vision and altered hearing. Colors may appear more vivid, and sounds may become distorted or distant.
4. Hallucinations: At higher doses, ketamine can induce hallucinations. These hallucinations can vary from mild distortions to more intense and immersive experiences. They might include vivid visual, auditory, or tactile hallucinations.
5. Changes in Thought Patterns: Ketamine can lead to changes in thought patterns, including fragmented or abstract thinking. Some users describe experiencing profound insights or a feeling of mental clarity.
6. Physical Sensations: Ketamine can affect physical sensations, including a sensation of weightlessness or numbness in the limbs. It may also lead to a feeling of "body melt" or "melting into the surroundings."
7. Mood Swings: The effects of ketamine can be unpredictable, leading to mood swings or changes in emotional states. Some users report feeling intensely happy and peaceful, while others may experience anxiety or dysphoria.
8. Loss of Coordination: Ketamine can impair motor coordination and balance. Walking or moving may become challenging, leading to a feeling of clumsiness or unsteadiness.
9. Time Distortion: Ketamine use can distort one's perception of time. Minutes may feel like hours, or hours may pass in what seems like minutes.
10. Nausea and Discomfort: Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of ketamine use, especially at higher doses. Some individuals may also experience headache or dizziness.

It's important to recognize that ketamine use comes with risks, including physical and psychological harm. Repeated or high-dose use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Additionally, ketamine should only be used under the guidance of a medical professional in therapeutic settings for conditions like treatment-resistant depression or chronic pain.

Recreational use of ketamine can be dangerous and illegal in many places. If you or someone you know is using ketamine recreationally and experiencing adverse effects, it is important to seek help from a healthcare provider or addiction specialist.