The truth is, the answer is rarely simple. While the headlines often highlight the dangers, it’s equally important to understand the human side: why people turn to Kpods, what risks they face, and how we can respond with care
If you are a parent concerned about your child, see our article: Kpods and Teens: A Practical Guide for Parents.
What Are Kpods?
Kpods are vape pods laced with ketamine, a dissociative drug sometimes used in hospitals as an anaesthetic. More recently, another drug, Etomidate, has also been found in some of these laced vapes. Etomidate is a powerful anaesthetic meant for use in hospitals under strict medical supervision. Outside of that controlled setting, its effects can be unpredictable and dangerous.
When used outside of medical supervision, the effects can be unpredictable and serious.
Side effects include:
Shaking or tremors
Slurred speech and confusion
Loss of balance and difficulty walking
Memory blackouts or detachment from reality
Damage to adrenal glands, intestines, and brain
Mental health risks: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disturbances, and psychosis
Even one-time use can be dangerous, and repeated use increases the likelihood of long-term physical and psychological harm.
Why Do People Use Kpods?
Despite the risks, people rarely use Kpods just to “get high.” Often, substance use is a response to emotional pain or unmet needs. There’s usually more going on beneath the surface.
Escaping pain or stress: Ketamine’s dissociative effect can feel like an escape from reality, while Etomidate’s sedative properties can temporarily numb emotional distress.
Fitting in with peers: Peer influence and the need to “fit in” can play a big role in experimentation, especially if the risks are downplayed.
Curiosity: Stories or conversations about Kpods, especially those that do not mention the risks, can spark a desire to try them “just once.”
Chasing a stronger experience: Regular vape users may be drawn to the idea of “stronger hits,” unaware of the potent and dangerous drugs inside.
How to Support Someone Using Kpods
If someone you care about is using Kpods or laced vapes, your response matters. Fear or frustration is natural, but support works best when it is rooted in empathy, not shame. Focus on leading the conversation with empathy and curiosity.
What to avoid:
“Just stop it.”
“You’re destroying your life.”
“I’ll report you if you don’t quit.”
What to try instead:
“I’ve noticed you haven’t been yourself lately. Are you okay?”
“Let’s talk about what you’ve been going through. It must have been hard on you.”
“I’m here to listen, not to judge.”
These gentle openings build trust. When someone feels seen and understood, they are more likely to feel safe enough to open up. That’s when real change can begin.
Encouraging Professional Help
Recovery is not a straight line. It is a journey with setbacks, detours, and gradual change. But with the right support, individuals can learn to manage better and overcome addiction.
If someone is open to it, encourage them to speak with a psychologist or addiction counsellor.
Therapy can help with:
Identifying emotional triggers
Learning healthy ways to cope
Rebuilding a sense of self-worth
Setting goals and creating structure
Reducing harm while working towards change
If it’s an emergency:
Call 995 or go
Where to get help:
NAMS Helpline: 6732 6837
National Mindline: 1771 (for personal support and guidance)
If the person is unconscious, hallucinating, or in immediate danger, call 995 or go to the nearest A&E.
A Final Thought
If you or someone you love is caught up in Kpod use, please remember that recovery starts with choice, not shame. This is not about being a “bad person” or a “bad friend” or “bad parent.” It’s about facing a challenge that can feel overwhelming, and finding the right help to move forward. At our clinic, we believe in meeting people where they are, with compassion and understanding, and practical strategies for change. You’re not alone in this journey.