Where does ketamine come from?

Answer

Ketamine (Special K) is an animal tranquilizer.

Answer

Ketamine belongs to the same family of drugs as: 1) dextromethorphan (DXM), which is found in some brands of over-the counter cough syrup; 2) nitrous oxide, better known as "whippets," for the metal whipped cream chargers in which the gas is packaged; and 3) PCP, also known as angel dust. (Entries on each of these drugs are available in this encyclopedia.)

Ketamine is a synthetic drug, meaning that it does not occur naturally but is manufactured in a lab from chemicals. It is most commonly used in its hydrochloride: a chemical compound composed of the elements hydrogen and chlorine, often in the form of a crystallized salt. The chemical composition of ketamine hydrochloride is C13H16ClNOHCl. The chemical structure and effects of ketamine are similar to those of PCP.

However, PCP is a longer lasting and more powerful drug...