Overview
The proposed research aims to explore non-prescribed (illicit) ketamine use in Australia. There are indications that non-prescribed ketamine use has increased in Australia but little information about what this use actually looks like. We want to gain insight into who might be using ketamine in Australia, how they use ketamine, and why they use it. We want to identify the consequences of ketamine use, both the benefits and the harms. We will do this to inform future research and the provision of harm reduction and medical services to people who use ketamine in Australia.
What the Study Involves
The AuKS utilises an online survey of people who have used ketamine at least once in the previous 12-months who will answer questions to their demographics, use of ketamine and other drugs, reasons for using ketamine, and consequences (both good and bad) they believe are related to their ketamine use.
The survey will take approximately 15 to 20 minutes to complete. Participants will be offered a chance to win 1 of 20 $50AUD prizes as thank you for their participation.
Who Can Participate?
We’re seeking participants who meet the following criteria:
- Aged 18 or over
- Have used non-prescribed ketamine in Australia at least once in the previous 12 months
- Residing in Australia
- Can read and understand English
If you think this study might be for you, please use this link for more information and to access the survey.
To participate, read the Patient Information Sheet, fill out the consent form, and then complete the survey.
Investigators
Mr. Stassi Kypri
National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, UNSW
Ms. Jess Doumany
Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League
Mx. John Gobeil
Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League
Dr. Liam Acheson
National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, UNSW
Dr. Krista Siefried
National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, UNSW
Prof. Nadine Ezard
National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, UNSW
Dr. Cilla Zhou
National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, UNSW
Dr. Jack Freestone
National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, UNSW
Dr. Kathryn Fletcher
National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, UNSW
A/Prof. Amy Peacock
National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW
Dr. Rachel Sutherland
National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW
Mr. Mitchell Lamb
Canberra Alliance for Harm Minimisation and Advocacy
Mr. Nick Kent
Harm Reduction Victoria
Dr. Jai Whelan
University of Otago, Christchurch, Aotearoa New Zealand