What type of drug is Ketamine classified as?

Ketamine is classified as a dissociative anesthetic. This category includes substances that distort perceptions of sight and sound and produce feelings of detachment from the environment and self. Ketamine works primarily as an NMDA receptor antagonist, leading to its anesthetic and sedative properties while causing dissociative effects that make users feel disconnected from their thoughts and surroundings.

Additionally, its potential for hallucinogenic experiences separates it from traditional hallucinogens, as its primary action is not focused on inducing hallucinations but rather on creating a distinct dissociative state. While some may classify it as a hallucinogen due to its mind-altering effects, its mechanism of action and primary effects align more closely with dissociatives. This distinction is crucial in the context of addiction medicine, as it helps in understanding both the therapeutic applications of ketamine and the risks associated with its misuse.