Characteristics and behaviors of ketamine users in France in 2003.

The increase in recreational use of ketamine in France led to the carrying out of a survey aimed at depicting the sociological profiles of French ketamine users, their addictive behaviors, and the characteristics relevant to the use of the substance. This survey is based upon the analysis of 250 questionnaires, 24 semi-directive interviews, and two focus groups. Data was collected between July 2002 and June 2003 among individuals who had used ketamine at least once since January 1, 2001. The respondents were mostly males with a polydrug addiction, aged about 24, with little post-secondary education and no steady job. Ketamine was generally the last substance experimented with throughout their lifetime, as of the age of 22. The article reviews the frequency of ketamine use observed in the population surveyed, as well as the routes of administration, the quantities used, the circumstances of use, the sought-after effects and those experienced, and the risks perceived by the users themselves. The data collected provides working facts to allow for the development and implementation of policies for preventing the use and abuse of ketamine among vulnerable populations.