High-risk drug alert: Methamphetamine contaminated Ketamine

Methamphetamine Found in Ketamine Sample: Unpredictable Risks

March 13, 2025 – A white crystal sample, expected to contain only ketamine, has been found to also contain methamphetamine. Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic, while methamphetamine is a stimulant, and their combination can cause unpredictable effects.

What does this mean? The presence of methamphetamine can alter the expected effects of ketamine. While ketamine typically causes dissociation and mild cardiovascular stimulation, methamphetamine can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness. This mix may lead to restlessness, heightened anxiety, or difficulty sleeping, especially if you’re unaware of the stimulant content.

Reducing the harm:
• Test your substances: While small amounts of methamphetamine in ketamine are not unusual, this sample could cause greater harm.
• Start low, go slow: Always try a test dose and never use alone.
• Know the signs: Symptoms like a fast heart rate, agitation, difficulty sleeping, overheating, or anxiety can indicate the presence of methamphetamine.

Signs of stimulant overdose:
• Chest pain, confusion, sudden headache
• If you or someone else experiences severe symptoms, seek medical help immediately by calling Triple Zero (000).

Stay safe, be cautious, and always test your substances.