Study finds ketamine deaths soared drastically in last decade

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By Stephen Beech

Ketamine deaths have soared twentyfold over the last 10 years, reveals a new report.

There have been 696 fatalities involving the illegal sedative in England, Wales and Northern Ireland since 1999, according to the study.

Researchers found that an increasing number of deaths since 2005 are due to mixing ketamine - often used as a horse tranquilizer - with other drugs.

Experts say their findings raise doubts over whether single-substance drug policies can work.

Ketamine - sometimes known as "Ket" "Special K" or "Vitamin K" - is sold as a grainy white or light brown powder similar to cocaine, but doctors warn that it is a very different drug.

It has become increasingly popular with young people as it has hallucinogenic effects and is rela