Is ketamine, the drug blamed for Matthew Perry's death, dangerous?

Although it is a legitimate medication, ketamine is also often used illegally as a recreational drug and smuggled into the country, as can be seen in this police bust where the drug was packed in Chinese tea packages. — Photos: Filepic

The finding by the Los Angeles County medical examiner in the United States that TV sitcom Friends star Matthew Perry died from “acute effects” of ketamine is generating interest in the drug.

Ketamine is generally safe when taken under medical supervision, experts said, but the Perry case also underscores potential risks.