Ketamine

Introduction to Ketamine

Ketamine, a powerful anaesthetic, is classified as a Class B drug under the UK Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Possessing, supplying, or producing ketamine is illegal, and those found with the drug can face severe penalties, including up to five years in prison or an unlimited fine. Supplying ketamine can result in a sentence of up to 14 years. While ketamine’s anaesthetic properties make it a useful medical tool, its abuse as a recreational drug raises significant concerns, especially among young people.

Despite government education and awareness campaigns, ketamine seizures continue to rise in England and Wales, and its misuse is now a growing issue in legal matters, and a growing number of families are using this drug, therefore there is increased concern in family law such as child custody proceedings. A significant problem arises with ketamine being cut with cocaine—creating a mixture known as 'CK.' In some regions, over 80% of cocaine tests return positive for ketamine.

This guide explores the testing methods for ketamine, how long the drug stays in hair, nails, urine and other samples, and other critical details, including how ketamine’s use may play a role in legal situations.

Ketamine Street Names

• Special K
• CK
• Pink Cocaine (A mixture of MDMA and Ketamine)

Ketamine's Chemical Structure

Ketamine belongs to the class of arylcyclohexylamine compounds, with a molecular structure that resembles phencyclidine (PCP). Its unique structure allows it to produce dissociative anaesthesia, making it effective for use in surgical procedures, but also explains its potential for misuse.

Ketamine Use in Legal Scenarios

In legal proceedings, ketamine drug testing may be required in cases where drug use is suspected, such as in child custody hearings. If one or both parents are found to have used ketamine, this could influence the court’s decision regarding the child's welfare.

If a court-ordered ketamine test comes back positive, the consequences could be severe. The court may rule that the drug-using parent is unfit for custody or grant limited visitation rights. In cases of joint drug use, a court may mandate rehabilitation before making a final decision.

False Positives and Interpretation of Ketamine Results

False positives in ketamine drug testing can occur. In urine, particularly when the drug is cut with other substances like cocaine. Additionally, certain medications, such as antihistamines, can interfere with urine tests, potentially leading to false positives for ketamine.

Misinterpretation of test results, especially when ketamine was prescribed and medically used, may also occur if proper procedures are not followed. Recently, there has been further evidence of individuals being exposed externally to ketamine results in contamination of the samples. It's crucial to perform confirmation testing and to understand the testing method and how different factors—such as contamination, sample collection errors, or cross-reactivity with other substances—could lead to inaccurate results.