What is ketamine horse tranquilizer? : Comprehensive Guide on Uses, Effects, and Where to Buy Research Quality Ketamine

Is ketamine a horse tranquilizer? Discover the real facts about its veterinary use, medical benefits, risks, and why it’s not what most people think. Ketamine has captured public attention for its diverse applications, from its origins as a veterinary anesthetic to its emerging role in treating depression. At Chem14.com, we believe in providing accurate, science-based information about research chemicals.

What Is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a medication primarily used for anesthesia and pain relief. According to DrugBank, ketamine is classified as a dissociative anesthetic that works by blocking N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain. It was first synthesized in 1962 by Calvin Stevens and approved for medical use in the United States in 1970.

Ketamine is available in several forms, including a clear liquid for injection, a white powder, and pills. For research purposes, it’s typically supplied as a hydrochloride salt.

Is Ketamine a Horse Tranquilizer?

One of the most common misconceptions about ketamine is that it’s exclusively a “horse tranquilizer.” While ketamine is indeed used in veterinary medicine for horses and other animals, this characterization oversimplifies its medical applications.

According to Wikipedia, ketamine was developed as a replacement for phencyclidine (PCP) and was initially used in human medicine before its veterinary applications became widespread. Today, ketamine is used in both human and veterinary medicine for:

• Anesthesia induction and maintenance
• Sedation
• Pain management
• Treatment of depression and other mental health conditions

The World Health Organization (WHO) lists ketamine as an essential medicine, recognizing its importance in healthcare systems worldwide.

Is Ketamine an Opioid?

No, ketamine is not an opioid. This is a crucial distinction that’s often misunderstood. While both ketamine and opioids can be used for pain relief, they work through entirely different mechanisms in the body.

According to Drugs.com, ketamine is classified as a dissociative anesthetic that works primarily on the NMDA receptor. In contrast, opioids work on opioid receptors (mu, delta, and kappa receptors) in the brain and nervous system.

This difference in mechanism of action explains why ketamine doesn’t produce the same respiratory depression that’s characteristic of opioids, making it safer in certain medical situations. It also means that opioid antagonists like naloxone (Narcan) do not reverse ketamine’s effects.

Is Ketamine Addictive? ⚠️

The addictive potential of ketamine is a complex topic. According to PsychonautWiki, ketamine does have potential for dependence and addiction, though the risk profile differs from many other controlled substances.

Factors Influencing Addiction Potential

1. Frequency of Use: Regular use increases the risk of developing tolerance and dependence.
2. Dosage: Higher doses are more likely to produce psychological dependence.
3. Route of Administration: Injection and smoking may carry higher addiction potential than oral or intranasal use.
4. Individual Factors: Personal history, mental health, and environment all play roles in addiction risk.

Signs of Ketamine Dependence

• Needing higher doses to achieve the same effect (tolerance)
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping use
• Continuing use despite negative consequences
• Spending excessive time obtaining, using, or recovering from ketamine
• Neglecting responsibilities in favor of ketamine use

Research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse suggests that while ketamine can be addictive, the physical withdrawal symptoms are generally less severe than those associated with opioids, alcohol, or benzodiazepines.

How Long Does Ketamine Last? ⏱️

The duration of ketamine’s effects varies significantly based on the route of administration, dosage, and individual factors. According to Drugs.com, here’s what to expect:

Duration by Administration Method

Detection Times

Ketamine can be detected in the body for varying periods depending on the testing method:

• Urine: 2-4 days after use (up to 14 days in chronic users)
• Blood: Up to 24 hours after use
• Saliva: Up to 24 hours after use
• Hair: Up to 90 days after use

These detection times are important considerations for research and clinical settings where drug monitoring may be necessary.

Ketamine Side Effects: What to Expect ⚠️

Like all medications, ketamine can produce side effects. According to Drugs.com, these can range from mild to severe, depending on the dosage and individual sensitivity.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Blurred vision
• Confusion or disorientation
• Increased blood pressure and heart rate
• Hallucinations or vivid dreams
• Dissociation (feeling detached from one’s body)
• Slurred speech
• Impaired memory and attention

Less Common but Serious Side Effects

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, difficulty breathing)
• Respiratory depression (slowed breathing)
• Severe confusion or agitation
• Seizures
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe bladder problems (with chronic use)

Long-Term Effects

With chronic, heavy use, ketamine can lead to more persistent health issues:

• Ketamine-induced cystitis: Inflammation and damage to the bladder wall
• Cognitive impairment: Problems with memory, attention, and decision-making
• Psychological dependence: As discussed earlier
• Tolerance: Needing higher doses to achieve the same effects

Researchers at Chem14.com emphasize the importance of understanding these potential side effects when working with ketamine in laboratory settings.

Ketamine Injection Uses in Medicine

Ketamine injection has several established medical applications, and new uses continue to be researched. According to Drugs.com, the primary medical uses include:

Anesthesia

• Induction: Ketamine is often used to induce anesthesia before other anesthetics are administered.
• Maintenance: It can be used to maintain anesthesia during surgical procedures.
• Procedural Sedation: For short procedures, ketamine provides effective sedation and pain relief.

Pain Management

• Acute Pain: In emergency settings, ketamine can provide rapid pain relief for severe injuries.
• Chronic Pain: Low-dose ketamine infusions are sometimes used for chronic pain conditions that don’t respond to other treatments.
• Opioid-Sparing Effects: Because ketamine works through a different mechanism, it can reduce the need for opioids in pain management.

Mental Health Treatment

• Treatment-Resistant Depression: Esketamine (a derivative of ketamine) has been approved for treatment-resistant depression.
• Suicidal Ideation: Ketamine can rapidly reduce suicidal thoughts in some patients.
• PTSD: Research is ongoing into ketamine’s potential for treating post-traumatic stress disorder.

Other Uses

• Status Epilepticus: Ketamine can be used for seizures that don’t respond to standard treatments.
• Asthma: Because it doesn’t depress breathing as much as other anesthetics, ketamine can be useful in patients with severe asthma.

For researchers looking to study these applications, Chem14.com offers high-quality research-grade ketamine for laboratory use.

Understanding Ketamine Injection

Ketamine injection is a sterile solution typically supplied in vials or ampoules. According to Cayman Chemical, it’s most commonly available in two concentrations:

• 50 mg/mL
• 100 mg/mL

Administration Methods

1. Intravenous (IV): Direct injection into a vein, providing rapid onset of effects.
2. Intramuscular (IM): Injection into a muscle, with slightly slower onset but longer duration than IV.
3. Subcutaneous: Injection under the skin, less common but sometimes used in specific settings.

Storage and Handling

Ketamine injections should be stored at controlled room temperature, protected from light. The solution should be clear and colorless; any discoloration or particles may indicate contamination or degradation.

For research purposes, proper handling and storage protocols are essential to maintain the integrity of the compound. At Chem14.com, we provide detailed guidelines for the safe handling of research chemicals.

What Does Ketamine Do to the Brain and Body?

Understanding ketamine’s mechanism of action helps explain its diverse effects. According to DrugBank, ketamine primarily works as a noncompetitive antagonist of the NMDA receptor.

Primary Mechanism of Action

Ketamine blocks the NMDA receptor, which is involved in pain transmission, memory formation, and mood regulation. This blockade leads to:

• Dissociation: A feeling of separation from one’s body and environment
• Analgesia: Pain relief without complete loss of consciousness
• Amnesia: Temporary memory impairment during the drug’s effects

Secondary Effects

Ketamine also affects other systems in the brain and body:

• Opioid Receptors: While not an opioid, ketamine does interact with opioid receptors to some degree.
• Monoaminergic Systems: It affects serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine systems.
• Cholinergic Systems: Ketamine influences acetylcholine signaling.
• GABA and Glutamate: It modulates the balance between these important neurotransmitters.

Subjective Effects

Users of ketamine report a range of subjective experiences, depending on the dose:

• Low Doses: Mild euphoria, relaxation, altered perception
• Medium Doses: More pronounced dissociation, visual distortions, impaired coordination
• High Doses: Complete dissociation (“K-hole”), intense hallucinations, profound alteration of consciousness

Researchers at PsychonautWiki note that these effects can vary significantly based on individual factors, setting, and mindset.

Ketamine 100mg/ml Price: What to Expect

The price of ketamine varies widely depending on several factors. For legitimate medical and research purposes, pricing is more standardized, while illicit markets have more variable pricing.

Medical and Research Pricing

According to industry data from Cayman Chemical, ketamine for research purposes typically ranges from $50-200 per gram, depending on purity and supplier. For the 100mg/ml concentration:

• Single 10ml vial (1000mg): Approximately $100-300
• Bulk purchases: Reduced per-unit pricing for larger quantities

Factors Affecting Price

1. Purity: Higher purity compounds command higher prices.
2. Source: Pharmaceutical-grade ketamine is more expensive than illicitly produced material.
3. Regulatory Environment: Prices may be higher in regions with stricter controls.
4. Formulation: Different preparations (liquid, powder, etc.) have different price points.

At Chem14.com, we offer competitive pricing on research-grade ketamine, with transparent information about purity and sourcing.

Ketamine Dose Per Kg: Calculating Proper Dosages

Proper dosing of ketamine is crucial for both safety and effectiveness. According to Drugs.com, dosing varies significantly based on the intended use and patient factors.

Standard Medical Dosages

Pediatric Considerations

Children often require slightly higher doses per kilogram than adults:

• Anesthesia Induction: 1-2 mg/kg IV or 4-5 mg/kg IM
• Sedation: 1-2 mg/kg IV or 3-5 mg/kg IM

Special Populations

• Elderly Patients: May require lower doses due to decreased clearance
• Patients with Liver Disease: May need dose adjustments due to altered metabolism
• Obese Patients: Dosing based on ideal body weight rather than total body weight

For research purposes, precise dosing calculations are essential. At Chem14.com, we provide detailed guidance on proper dosing protocols for laboratory research.

Does Ketamine Show Up on a 12 Panel Drug Test?

Drug testing for ketamine is a common concern for researchers and individuals undergoing screening. According to Drugs.com, standard drug tests have varying capabilities for detecting ketamine.

Standard Drug Panels

• 5-Panel Test: Typically does not include ketamine
• 10-Panel Test: Usually does not include ketamine
• 12-Panel Test: May or may not include ketamine, depending on the specific configuration

Specialized Testing

To detect ketamine, specific tests must be used:

• Immunoassay: Some specialized immunoassays can detect ketamine and its metabolites
• Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS): Can accurately identify ketamine
• Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS): Another reliable method for ketamine detection

Detection Windows

Ketamine can be detected in the body for varying periods:

• Urine: 2-4 days after single use, up to 14 days in chronic users
• Blood: Up to 24 hours after use
• Saliva: Up to 24 hours after use
• Hair: Up to 90 days after use

For research purposes, understanding these detection windows is crucial for study design and interpretation. At Chem14.com, we provide comprehensive information on testing protocols for research chemicals.

Legal Status of Ketamine Around the World

The legal status of ketamine varies significantly by country, reflecting its dual nature as both a valuable medical tool and a substance with potential for misuse.

United States

In the United States, ketamine is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This means:

• It has accepted medical uses
• It has moderate to low potential for physical dependence
• It has potential for psychological dependence
• Prescription requirements apply

United Kingdom

In the UK, ketamine is classified as a Class B controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This classification:

• Makes unauthorized possession illegal
• Makes unauthorized supply illegal
• Allows for legitimate medical and veterinary use

European Union

Most EU countries classify ketamine as a controlled substance with varying levels of restriction:

• Germany: Anlage III (prescription-only medicine)
• France: List I (strictly controlled substance)
• Netherlands: List II (controlled substance with medical applications)

Asia

Asian countries have diverse approaches to ketamine regulation:

• China: Strictly controlled, with severe penalties for unauthorized possession
• Japan: Controlled substance with medical applications
• India: Schedule H (prescription drug)

Australia

In Australia, ketamine is classified as a Schedule 8 controlled substance, indicating:

• High potential for abuse
• Strict controls on prescribing and dispensing
• Special storage and record-keeping requirements

For researchers at Chem14.com, understanding these legal distinctions is essential for compliance with international regulations.

Buy Ketamine online for Research: What You Need to Know

For legitimate research purposes, obtaining high-quality ketamine requires working with reputable suppliers who adhere to strict quality standards.

Quality Considerations

When sourcing ketamine for research, consider these factors:

1. Purity: Look for suppliers who provide certificates of analysis (COA) verifying purity.
2. Consistency: Reliable suppliers maintain consistent product quality across batches.
3. Documentation: Proper documentation including CAS numbers, safety data sheets, and handling instructions.
4. Compliance: Suppliers should follow all applicable regulations for research chemicals.

Supplier Verification

Before purchasing from any supplier, verify their credentials:

• Check for proper licensing and accreditation
• Look for customer reviews and testimonials
• Verify their quality control processes
• Ensure they provide proper documentation with their products

At Chem14.com, we pride ourselves on transparency and quality, providing researchers with the information they need to make informed decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ketamine ❓

1. Is ketamine safe for medical use?

When administered by trained medical professionals, ketamine has a strong safety profile. According to the World Health Organization, ketamine is listed as an essential medicine due to its safety and efficacy in anesthesia and pain management. However, like all medications, it can cause side effects and should only be used under appropriate medical supervision.

2. Can ketamine really help with depression?

Yes, ketamine has shown promising results for treatment-resistant depression. The American Psychiatric Association has recognized ketamine (and its derivative esketamine) as a treatment option for certain forms of depression. Research suggests that ketamine can produce rapid antidepressant effects, sometimes within hours, compared to weeks for traditional antidepressants.

3. What’s the difference between ketamine and esketamine?

Esketamine is a specific form of ketamine that contains only the S(+) enantiomer of the molecule. According to Drugs.com, esketamine is approximately twice as potent as racemic ketamine (which contains both S(+) and R(-) enantiomers). Esketamine has been approved by the FDA as a nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression, while ketamine itself is used off-label for depression through IV infusions.

4. How does ketamine compare to other anesthetics?

Ketamine has several unique properties that distinguish it from other anesthetics. Unlike most anesthetics, ketamine doesn’t suppress breathing or blood pressure significantly, making it safer in certain situations. According to DrugBank, ketamine also provides analgesia (pain relief) in addition to anesthesia, which isn’t always the case with other anesthetic agents.

5. Are there any natural alternatives to ketamine?

There are no direct natural alternatives to ketamine, as it’s a synthetic compound. However, some naturally occurring substances like certain hallucinogenic mushrooms (containing psilocybin) and ayahuasca (containing DMT) are being studied for similar therapeutic applications, particularly in mental health treatment. Research from institutions like Johns Hopkins University is exploring these natural compounds for conditions like depression and PTSD.

Key Takeaways About Ketamine

• Ketamine is not just a horse tranquilizer – it’s a versatile medication used in human medicine for anesthesia, pain management, and mental health treatment.
• Ketamine is not an opioid – it works on NMDA receptors, not opioid receptors, making it valuable for pain management without opioid-related risks.
• Ketamine can be addictive with regular use, though the addiction potential differs from many other controlled substances.
• The duration of ketamine’s effects varies significantly based on the route of administration, ranging from 5-15 minutes for IV use to 1-2 hours for oral use.
• Side effects of ketamine can range from mild (nausea, dizziness) to severe (respiratory depression, bladder problems with chronic use).
• Ketamine injection has multiple medical uses beyond anesthesia, including pain management and treatment of depression.
• Ketamine works primarily by blocking NMDA receptors, leading to its dissociative and analgesic effects.
• The price of ketamine varies based on purity, source, and regulatory environment, with research-grade material typically ranging from $50-200 per gram.
• Proper dosing of ketamine depends on the intended use, patient factors, and route of administration.
• Ketamine detection in drug tests requires specialized testing, with detection windows varying by testing method and pattern of use.

For researchers looking to study this fascinating compound, Chem14.com offers high-quality research-grade ketamine and related compounds, with comprehensive documentation and support for your research needs.