Hon Jim Anderton
Minister of Agriculture, Minister for Biosecurity
Minister of Fisheries, Minister of Forestry
Associate Minister of Health
Associate Minister for Tertiary Education
Progressive Leader
26 February 2008
Ketamine to become classified drug
Cabinet has approved the classification of ketamine as a Class C drug, Associate Health Minister Jim Anderton said
today.
The classification, which is to be approved by Parliament after being gazetted, means that there will be increased
controls on storage of the drug and increased penalties for its importation, possession, manufacture, or supply for
illicit purposes.
Ketamine can continue to be used as a prescription-only medicine by health professionals and veterinarians.
It is a short-acting hallucinogenic dissociative anaesthetic, commonly used by veterinarians and increasingly in human
surgery and palliative care. It is not currently classified, but is listed as a prescription medicine in the Medicines
Regulations.
Jim Anderton said the classification of ketamine had been recommended by the Expert Advisory Committee on Drugs.
“This reflects their concern at the potential risk of harm associated with ketamine, which is considered to be of
moderate risk.”
He said it would still be able to be used as a prescription-only medicine by veterinarians and doctors, but they would
need to keep it in an “approved” locked metal or concrete cupboard or compartment.
ENDS