Ketamine hydrochloride is a powerful anesthetic drug commonly used for surgical procedures and pain management. However, there are several other terms for this drug that are often used interchangeably. These include ketamine HCL, ketamine hydrobromide, and Ketaset among others. Other technical synonyms for ketamine hydrochloride include 2-(2-chlorophenyl)-2-(methylamino)cyclohexanone hydrochloride and CI 581 base. Besides being used in medicine, ketamine hydrochloride also has a reputation as a recreational drug whose effects are sometimes described as similar to those of phencyclidine (PCP). Nonetheless, regardless of the name, the drug's potency and potential for both medical and non-medical uses remain consistent.