The famous song “Space Oddity” by David Bowie, commonly believed to be about the experience of taking mind-altering drugs, perfectly describes the feelings of alienation and dissociation that come with using ketamine. Ketamine users have intense hallucinations and even near-death experiences, as well as being at a greatly increased risk of accidents and injuries. Long‑term use leads to dependency and irreversible damage to the body.

It all began in 2011. That was the year of the first wastewater analysis that evaluated the consumption of illegal drugs in 19 European cities.

When the first psychoactive substances (NPS for short) appeared on the market at the turn of the century, many people feared that they would flood the market and dazzle consumers. These drugs, often sold as “bath salts”, “air freshener” or “plant food”, were legal and relatively inexpensive. However, this assumption proved false. The sale and consumption of NPS has stagnated at a low level and, in some cases, even declined.

Working mums, sportspeople, partygoers – all united in the wish to appear infinitely capable. Methamphetamine seems to grant that wish. A physical and mental high that can last for days displaces the subsequent low, the risky side effects and the long-term consequences.