Context: Ketamine drug was reported to be involved in actor Matthew Perry’s death recently.In recent years, ketamine has been a subject of widespread debate due to its growing use for treating depression and other serious mental health issues.

About ketamine:

• Ketamine, classified as an anaesthetic and hallucinogen by the US Drug Enforcement Administration, is derived from Phencyclidine (PCP), another hallucinogenic drug.
• Its mechanism of action involves blocking the NMDA receptor in the brain and spinal cord, leading to an increased release of the neurotransmitter glutamate.
• Ketamine is utilized for treating mental illnesses in patients who do not respond to conventional therapy.
• Additionally, it is used recreationally, falling into the category of recreational drugs, which induce pleasure or alter one's state of mind.
• Recreational drugs are classified into types such as stimulants (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine, caffeine), depressants (e.g., alcohol, marijuana, benzodiazepines), and hallucinogens (e.g., LSD, psilocybin, DMT).

Applications:

• Classified as a dissociative anaesthetic with psychedelic properties.
• Strictly utilized under medical supervision for anaesthesia.
• Applied in the treatment of various conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, end-of-life distress, chronic pain, and substance abuse issues.

Regulatory status in India

• Classified as a Schedule X drug in India.
• Undergoes strict control and monitoring on a case-by-case basis as determined by the prescribing doctor. Schedule X drugs fall under the category of "restrictive drugs" according to the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules, indicating a high level of regulatory control and monitoring by the National Fund to Control Drug Abuse.