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        From "Special K" to "Special M" : The Evolution of the Recreational use of Ketamine and Methoxetamine

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        Author
        Corazza, Ornella
        Assi, Sulaf
        Schifano, Fabrizio
        Attention
        2299/10745
        Abstract
        Objective: To review the recreational use of ketamine (‘Special K’; KET) and explore the recent diffusion of its new derivative methoxetamine (‘Special M’; MXE). Methods: The literature search on the non-clinical/recreational use of KET and MXE was carried out in a range of medical databases. Considering the limitations of peer-reviewed information, data were integrated with a qualitative assessment of a range of websites, drug fora and other online resources including. Results: The recreational use of KET has started since its discovery in 1962. This was due to its rapid onset, short duration of action, and peculiar psychotropic effects (‘K-hole’). The latter effect ranges from confusion to dissociation and depersonalization (near-death experience). However, KET abuse is often associated with physical and psychological side effects of which the worst is urological/bladder toxicity. Recently, MXE has emerged as a legal and ‘bladder friendly’ KET alternative. MXE presents with the same dissociative effect of KET but with slower onset and longer duration of action. However, MXE seems to be associated with worse side effects than KET, ranging from mood disturbances/suicidal attempts to acute cerebellar toxicity. Conclusions: After 50 years of its discovery, KET has led to the emergence of MXE. However, this latter derivative does not appear to be a safer alternative to KET itself.
        Publication date
        2013-06
        Published in
        CNS Neuroscience and Therapeutics
        Published version
        https://doi.org/10.1111/cns.12063
        Other links
        http://hdl.handle.net/2299/10745
        Relations
        School of Life and Medical Sciences
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