O-PCE is a potent and long-acting ‘dissociative’
O-PCE (deschloro-N-ethyl-ketamine) is a dissociative/hallucinogen that is most commonly mis-sold as “extra strong ketamine”. Dissociatives are drugs that make you feel disconnected from your body or surroundings.
Compared with ketamine, O-PCE appears to be more potent and stimulating and is much longer-acting (3-6 hours compared with 30-60 minutes). People who have used O-PCE say the dissociation is deeper and more disorienting, with more intense sedation and a lingering mental fog. This is very different from stimulants like methamphetamine or MDMA.
Be cautious with drugs that look like these white crystals – start low and go slow
Five people in two separate incidents across Melbourne are known to have been exposed to this substance believing it was methamphetamine or MDMA. It’s unusual for O-PCE to appear as larger crystals which resemble these other drugs. The substance has produced adverse effects in small amounts (35-40 mg).
People who are expecting methamphetamine or MDMA are likely to experience unexpected dissociative effects from this substance, including sedation, loss of consciousness, and loss of judgement with the subsequent risk of injury. Some may also experience psychological distress as a result of not being prepared for or familiar with dissociatives. Consuming dissociatives such as O-PCE with depressants such as opioids, benzodiazepines, GHB or alcohol will increase the risk of intense sedation and disorientation. Consuming O-PCE with stimulants may increase the risk of effects like anxiety and feelings of fear or dread.
While all drug use comes with risk, if you intend to use a substance resembling the one pictured, make sure you’re in a safe environment with people you trust. Start with a low dose – less than 20 mg (a typical dose of methamphetamine/MDMA is 70-100 mg). Get one person in the group delaying taking their portion so they can monitor and seek help if required. Any dissociative effects should appear within 20-40 minutes.
Reduce the risk of harm
If you experience toxic drug effects, or are present when someone has an unexpected reaction, seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero (000).
All alcohol and other drug use comes with risks, so:
- Be aware that other false or contaminated drug products may circulate in Victoria, even if no specific warning has been issued about them.
- Know the signs of opioid overdose and carry naloxone – no matter what drugs you think you’re getting. Dissociatives and opioids both cause sedation, however opioid overdose can also cause dangerously slow breathing. In the case of a suspected overdose, the best and safest approach is to administer naloxone. Find an approved pharmacy or health service to get naloxone free of charge.
- Remember, even ‘pure’ drugs can produce serious side effects and death and can interact dangerously with medications/pharmaceutical drugs. Get the facts from the Alcohol and Drug Foundation .
Contact Harm Reduction Victoria’s DanceWize team for anonymous support and education from peers. Talk to DanceWize volunteers by email at info@dancewize.org.au.
If you or someone you know needs help with alcohol or drug use, call DirectLine on 1800 888 236 or visit for information and support to access treatment.
Downloads
Drug advisory - O-PCE sold as methamphetamine or MDMA
Reviewed 30 May 2025