Cornellβs Jane Doe Said She Was Given Ketamine. Hereβs How the Drug Works. NYT: Science By: Andrew Jacobs 1 October 2026 at 17:08 Ketamine is a short-acting anesthetic that can have hallucinogenic effects. It is becoming more easily available, and some experts fear misuse is increasing. Β© Julie Ezvan/Agence France-Presse β Getty ImagesKetamine can have a hallucinogenic effect at certain doses.