In medical settings, ketamine is an effective anesthetic. However, the drug’s hallucinogenic effects have made it a popular illicit drug primarily used in youth party scenes. Despite its reputation, ketamine is far from harmless, and its use can quickly turn dangerous — even fatal. If you’re thinking about quitting but don’t know how to stop, our team at the Ketamine Abuse Hotline is here to provide free and confidential advice. Call us today. We’re available to take your call anytime, day or night.
What Is Ketamine?
Ketamine was initially developed as an anesthetic for medical and veterinary use in the 1960s. It’s called a dissociative anesthetic because it alters the user’s sight and sound perception and can induce an “out-of-body” experience.
In the United States, ketamine is classed as a Schedule III controlled substance. Medically, ketamine is used as an anesthetic. Esketatime, a nasal spray version of the drug, is FDA-approved for severe pain and treatment-resistant depression. Limited research suggests that low doses administered under medical supervision can help relieve symptoms of severe depression. However, the psychiatric community has yet to reach a consensus about the drug’s safety and effectiveness.
As an illicit drug, ketamine is popular for its mind-altering properties and the euphoric, out-of-body experiences it can provide. The drug can induce hallucinations, a sense of detachment from reality and an altered perception of time and space, often described as a “K-hole.” People may abuse the drug for its effects or as a way to self-medicate underlying mental health conditions.
How Common Is Ketamine Abuse?
Ketamine abuse may not be as widespread as the abuse of other illicit substances, such as opioids or stimulants, but it’s becoming a growing concern in the United States. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, the recreational use of ketamine has been increasing among young adults and in party scenes. Recent surveys indicate that 1% of 12th-grade students tried ketamine at least once in 2023, a slight increase from just 2 years prior.
Risks of Using Ketamine
The drug can make the user feel disconnected from their body and surroundings and distort their perceptions of reality. Judgment may be impaired while under the influence, increasing the risk of injuries. Nausea, vomiting and confusion are common short-term side effects, which can occur during and after ketamine use.
Ketamine is often used alongside other drugs, such as alcohol, cocaine and MDMA, which significantly increases the risks of drug interaction and overdose. Studies found ketamine present in 79% of accidental overdose cases where it was combined with other drugs. Using ketamine alongside alcohol carries the highest life-threatening risk. Signs of overdose include slow or shallow breathing, cognitive impairment, sedation and seizures.
Long-term ketamine abuse carries serious consequences. Over time, the drug can cause cognitive issues and negatively impact memory and attention. The drug can also worsen conditions such as anxiety and depression and induce psychosis in users with no history of mental illness.
Chronic use can cause bladder damage and ketamine-induced cystitis. People suffering from ketamine-induced cystitis experience a frequent need to urinate, pain during urination and blood in the urine. Surgical intervention may be necessary to treat severe cases.
Recovering From Ketamine Addiction
Repeated ketamine use can lead to psychological and physical dependence. Withdrawing from ketamine can be unpleasant and distressing. You might crave the drug while feeling anxious, depressed and irritable. Physical symptoms may include sweating, tremors, tiredness and insomnia. Some users may experience hallucinations or psychosis during the first few days of discontinuing use, so medical detox is strongly recommended. Withdrawal typically starts within hours of your last dose and can last up to 4 weeks.
Getting Past Withdrawal
While the risk of serious complications during ketamine withdrawal is low, symptoms are severe enough to warrant medical supervision. Here are some tips to help you cope:
- Get professional help. An addiction specialist or a rehab center can offer the necessary medical supervision to detox safely. Some medications may help mitigate withdrawal symptoms and help prevent relapse.
- Stay hydrated and nourished. Drinking plenty of water and sticking to a balanced meal plan can help your body cope with the physical stress of withdrawal.
- Engage in self-care. Distract yourself from cravings with relaxing activities, such as taking a warm bath, watching a movie or reading a good book. If you’re feeling up for it, try gentle exercise, such as a short walk.
- Create a supportive environment. Surround yourself with supportive people who understand what you’re going through. You can connect with others working on their recovery by attending peer support meetings.
Treatment Options
Ketamine addiction can be difficult to beat. Getting ketamine addiction support can increase your chances of success. Potentially beneficial treatments include:
- Medical detoxification. During detox, medical staff can monitor vital signs and, in some cases, provide medications to alleviate more severe withdrawal symptoms.
- Residential or outpatient treatment programs. Some people struggling with ketamine misuse disorder might benefit from rehabilitation in a residential or outpatient treatment center.
- Behavioral therapy. Therapy sessions can help individuals understand their patterns of drug use and develop healthier ways of thinking and behaving.
- Support groups. Twelve-step programs or other peer support groups offer a safe space to share experiences and become part of a supportive community of people facing similar challenges.
Is It Time to Call the Ketamine Abuse Hotline?
Ketamine addiction may not be as prevalent as other addiction types, but illicit use can endanger your life. When suffering from addiction, you don’t know how to live without your next fix. Calling the ketamine crisis helpline is your first step toward recovery. Our team can connect you to local addiction resources, including medical detox, therapy and support groups.
If you’re facing a ketamine crisis, call the Ketamine Abuse Hotline now. Our helpline is available 24-7 and offers free, confidential support to start you on your journey toward a brighter future.