Ketamine ampoules are frequently stolen from veterinary clinics. Depending on the strength of the vial, one ampoule will provide about 5 illicit doses. People taking ketamine may not always be aware of what they are ingesting. Classified as a dissassociative, ketamine creates a sensation wherein the user feels they are separated from their body and may report near death experiences. In this disassociated state they do not respond to pain and are at great risk of injuring themselves without being aware or even caring about it.
Larger doses can elicit emesis, seizures and respiratory depression.
Doses of 1 gram or more can cause death. Tolerance to ketamine has been reported. Mild symptoms of dependence have also been reported. These symptoms include drug craving, persistent amnesia, slurred speech and difficulty in concentrating. In addition, marked personality changes have been noted.