Scottish health authorities issue an urgent warning about the rising prevalence of ‘rhino ket’, a dangerous drug cocktail that combines ketamine with amphetamine, following reports of serious health incidents among young people across the country.

Public Health Scotland identifies rhino ket as a rapidly emerging trend in their latest Rapid Action Drug Alerts and Response (RADAR) report, with Police Scotland data showing increased encounters with the terminology in recent months.

The dangerous substance appears more frequently in Scotland’s drug supply chain, raising significant concerns about addiction risks and potentially fatal consequences for users. Unlike standard ketamine, this modified version delivers intensified effects by combining the horse tranquilliser with stimulant amphetamine.

Serious Health Incidents Reported

NHS Lothian has documented a concerning increase in under-25s taking potent batches of rhino ket, with users experiencing severe side effects including heart palpitations and mouth ulcers. Meanwhile, Fife has reported multiple overdoses requiring emergency ambulance services, particularly affecting young people under 25.

“We work closely with a range of partners across Fife, including third sector organisations and statutory services, to ensure a broad network of support is available to those who need it,” said a spokesperson for Fife Alcohol and Drug Partnership.

The synthetic drug mixture has been linked to severe adverse reactions including amnesia, seizures, and in some cases, complete physical incapacitation known as entering a “k-hole” state.

Cultural Influences Under Scrutiny

Health officials note concerning links between the drug’s popularity and cultural references in music and entertainment. One Glasgow mother contacted authorities after her 16-year-old son, previously drug-free, sought out rhino ket following exposure to content that appeared to normalise its use.

“He got in a state one night and could hardly talk when he got home. His face was bashed and he said someone had given him rhino ket,” the concerned parent explained. “We found out that it’s ketamine mixed with amphetamine and it’s hugely dangerous.”

The mother, describing herself as liberal-minded, expressed alarm at discovering content that seemed to encourage young people to experiment with the dangerous substance.

Part of Wider Drug Trend Concerns

The rhino ket warning accompanies alerts about other dangerous drug combinations emerging in Scotland. Health officials also flag “speedballing” – the combined use of crack cocaine and heroin – as another potentially lethal trend requiring urgent attention.

Earlier this year, authorities raised alarms about young Scots using a cocaine and ketamine mixture dubbed “Calvin Klein”, which links to heart attacks and fatalities. Public Health Scotland received almost 20 alerts about this dangerous combination.

The UK recorded its highest ketamine usage figures on record in 2023, with almost 300,000 people aged 16-59 reporting use of the drug according to Home Office statistics.

Law Enforcement Response

Superintendent Joanne McEwan of Police Scotland emphasised the force’s commitment to tackling the issue: “Police Scotland works in partnership with a wide range of national and international partners and law enforcement agencies to monitor trends and emerging threats.”

Officers continue working to remove illegal drugs from communities whilst supporting harm reduction initiatives. The force has called for continued public cooperation in building intelligence about drug possession and supply.

“We can’t tackle this issue alone and would urge the public to continue supporting us in building intelligence about the possession and supply of drugs by contacting Police Scotland on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111,” McEwan added.

Health Partnership Approach

Scottish health partnerships are maintaining vigilant monitoring of emerging substance trends through weekly team meetings and monthly reviews focused on identifying practical risk reduction actions.

The collaborative approach involves statutory services, third sector organisations, and law enforcement working together to provide comprehensive support networks for those affected by substance-related harm.

As ketamine-related incidents continue rising across Scotland, health officials stress the importance of community awareness and early intervention to protect vulnerable young people from these dangerous drug combinations.