Recommendation (from TRS)
Substance identification
2-Fluorodeschloroketamine (IUPAC name: 2-(2-fluorophenyl)-2-(methylamino)cyclohexan-1-one) is an
arylcyclohexylamine that is chemically related to the dissociative anaesthetic ketamine. It has been
described as a brown oil in its free base form or as a crystalline solid or white powder as a salt. It has
been identified in some food products (chocolates).
WHO review history
2-Fluorodeschloroketamine has not been reviewed formally by WHO and is not currently under
international control. Information was brought to WHO’s attention that this substance is
manufactured clandestinely, poses a risk to public health and has no recognized therapeutic use.
Similarity to known substances and effects on the central nervous system
The mechanism of action of 2-fluorodeschloroketamine is uncertain, but it has effects similar to those
of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists such as phencyclidine, which are controlled under
Schedule II of the Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971. Effects documented during clinical
admissions due to 2-fluorodeschloroketamine intoxication include dissociation, confusion, agitation,
tachycardia and hypertension. Unverified reports from people who use 2-fluorodeschloroketamine
describe hallucinogenic and dissociative effects. The clinical and self-reported effects of 2-
fluorodeschloroketamine are consistent with the effects of phencyclidine.
Dependence potential
No controlled studies in experimental animal or humans were found on the dependence potential of
2-fluorodeschloroketamine; however, clinical admissions for dependence on 2- fluorodeschloroketamine have been reported in various countries and regions.
Actual abuse and/or evidence of likelihood of abuse
Studies in experimental animals indicate that 2-fluorodeschloroketamine has behavioural (locomotor)
effects consistent with central nervous system stimulation. Such studies confirm that it has rewarding
properties and effects predictive of abuse liability.
Cases of intoxication that involved 2-fluorodeschloroketamine and required hospitalizatio have been
reported. The adverse effects included central nervous system effects such as dissociation, confusion,
agitation, combativeness, nystagmus, hallucinations and impaired consciousness, loss of consciousness and cardiovascular effects such as tachycardia and hypertension. Fatal intoxications involving 2-fluorodeschloroketamine have been documented, including at least one case in which no
other substance was involved. 2-Fluorodeschloroketamine has been analytically confirmed in people
driving under the influence of drugs and in clinical admissions due to drug intoxication. It is reported
to be administered by various routes including orally, intranasally and by injection.
Seizures have been reported in a number of countries in several regions.
Therapeutic use
2-Fluorodeschloroketamine is not known to have any therapeutic use, is not listed on the WHO Model
Lists of Essential Medicines and has never been marketed as a medicinal product.
Rationale and recommendation
2-Fluorodeschloroketamine has effects similar to those of dissociative substances such as
phencyclidine, which are controlled under Schedule II of the Convention on Psychotropic Substances
of 1971. The results of studies in experimental animals indicate a high likelihood of abuse. There is
evidence that this substance is used in a number of countries in several regions. 2-
Fluorodeschloroketamine causes substantial harm, including impaired driving, emergency department
presentations and deaths. It has no known therapeutic use.
The Committee recommended that 2-fluorodeschloroketamine (IUPAC name: 2-(2-fluorophenyl)-2-
(methylamino)cyclohexan-1-one) be added to Schedule II of the Convention on Psychotropic
Substances of 1971
ECDD Recommendation
Inclusion in Schedule II of the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances