Ketamine Addiction: Symptoms, Effects & Treatments
In recent years, Ketamine, once solely recognized for its anesthetic properties in medical settings, has gained notoriety as a recreational drug, leading to a concerning rise in ketamine addiction. The allure of its dissociative effects has ensnared individuals from various walks of life, transcending age, gender, and socioeconomic status. As the grip of addiction tightens, the search for effective treatment becomes paramount.
First City Recovery Center, is an institution dedicated to guiding individuals through the arduous journey of ketamine addiction recovery. Through a multifaceted approach encompassing detoxification, therapy, and holistic care, First City Recovery Center stands as a testament to the power of compassion and innovation in combating substance abuse.
What Is Ketamine?
Ketamine is a potent medication primarily used for inducing anesthesia in medical settings. It belongs to the class of drugs known as dissociative anesthetics, which work by disrupting signals in the brain that control sensory perception, leading to a state of dissociation from reality.
Originally developed in the 1960s, ketamine’s unique properties have found widespread use in both human and veterinary medicine. Its rapid onset and short duration of action make it particularly valuable in emergency medicine and surgical procedures.
Beyond its medical applications, ketamine has also gained popularity as a recreational drug due to its hallucinogenic and dissociative effects. However, its recreational use carries significant risks, including addiction, cognitive impairment, and potential long-term damage to the bladder and urinary tract.
How Is Ketamine Used In A Medical Sense?
In a medical context, ketamine is primarily used as an anesthetic agent. Its versatility lies in its ability to induce anesthesia while maintaining cardiovascular stability and respiratory function, making it suitable for a variety of medical procedures. Here are some common ways ketamine is used in medicine:
Anesthesia Induction: Ketamine is often used to induce anesthesia before surgery or other medical procedures. It can be administered intravenously, intramuscularly, or orally depending on the specific requirements of the procedure and the patient’s condition.
Pain Management: Ketamine is also used as an analgesic agent to manage acute and chronic pain, particularly in emergency medicine and trauma settings. It can be administered via various routes, including intravenous infusion or intramuscular injection.
Sedation: In emergencies or for minor surgical procedures, ketamine may be used to provide sedation and reduce anxiety. Its rapid onset and short duration of action make it suitable for procedures where quick recovery is desired.
Psychiatric Treatment: Ketamine infusion therapy has shown promise in the treatment of certain psychiatric disorders, such as treatment-resistant depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In controlled clinical settings, ketamine is administered intravenously at sub-anesthetic doses under close medical supervision.
Ketamine’s unique pharmacological properties make it a valuable tool in various medical specialties, including anesthesia, emergency medicine, pain management, and psychiatry. However, Ketamine’s medical use should always be carefully monitored by trained healthcare professionals to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
How Addictive Is Ketamine?
Ketamine has the potential to be addictive, although its addictive properties are considered to be lower compared to some other drugs of abuse like opioids or stimulants. The addictive potential of ketamine can vary depending on factors such as individual susceptibility, frequency and dose of use, and the presence of underlying mental health issues.
The addictive properties of ketamine primarily stem from its ability to produce euphoria, dissociation, and altered states of consciousness, which can lead to psychological dependence. Individuals may develop cravings for ketamine and feel compelled to continue using it despite negative consequences on their health, relationships, or daily functioning.
While physical dependence on ketamine is less common compared to drugs like opioids, prolonged and heavy ketamine use can still lead to tolerance, where higher doses are needed to achieve the desired effects and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use. These withdrawal symptoms can include cravings, mood disturbances, insomnia, and cognitive difficulties.
While ketamine addiction may not be as prevalent as addiction to some other substances, it is still a significant concern, particularly among individuals who misuse ketamine recreationally or as a form of self-medication.
Why Do People Abuse Ketamine?
Psychedelic and Dissociative Effects: Ketamine can induce hallucinations, alter perceptions of reality, and create a sense of detachment from the body and surroundings. These effects can be appealing to individuals seeking altered states of consciousness or escape from reality.
Euphoria and Pleasure: Ketamine can produce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and pleasure, making it attractive to those seeking recreational drug experiences or looking for a temporary escape from stress or negative emotions.
Enhancement of Social Situations: Some individuals may abuse ketamine in social settings to enhance the experience of parties, concerts, or other gatherings. It can increase sociability, reduce inhibitions, and create a sense of camaraderie among users.
Self-Medication: Some people may misuse ketamine as a form of self-medication to cope with underlying mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. They may perceive ketamine as a quick and accessible solution to alleviate emotional distress.
Peer Influence and Curiosity: Peer pressure and curiosity can also play a role in ketamine abuse, especially among young people. Exposure to friends or social circles where ketamine use is normalized can influence individuals to experiment with the drug.
Despite the perceived benefits or motivations for ketamine abuse, it’s essential to recognize the potential risks and consequences associated with its misuse, including addiction, physical and psychological harm, legal issues, and social impairment.
What Are Some Of The “Street Names” Of Ketamine?
Ketamine is known by various street names, which are often used in informal or illicit settings. These street names may vary depending on regional slang or local drug culture. Some common street names for ketamine include:
- K
- Special K
- Vitamin K
- Cat Valium
- Kit Kat
- Super Acid
- Jet
- Green
- Purple
- Honey Oil
Ketamine Addiction Statistics
In 2020, about 1.1 million Americans tried a hallucinogenic substance for the first time, among them being ketamine. By 2015, around 3 million Americans had experimented with ketamine at least once, primarily between the ages of 12 and 25.
Ketamine abuse in the United States remains relatively uncommon, affecting 1% or less of the population. The peak of recreational ketamine use was recorded in 2019 at 0.9%. Typically, ketamine misuse is most prevalent among individuals aged 16 to 25, with the average user being male and around 31 years old.
Unfortunately, ketamine has also been utilized as a date rape drug due to its sedative and memory-altering properties. In 2020, 1.3% of 12th graders in the United States admitted to using ketamine.
Symptoms Of Ketamine Addiction
Physical Symptoms
Tolerance: Ketamine users often develop tolerance over time, requiring larger doses to achieve the desired effects they once experienced with smaller amounts. This tolerance can contribute to escalating ketamine use and the risk of overdose.
Withdrawal Symptoms: When individuals addicted to ketamine attempt to stop or reduce their use, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include cravings for ketamine, sweating, nausea, tremors, and other physical discomforts. Withdrawal from ketamine can be challenging and may require professional medical assistance to manage safely.
Psychological Symptoms
Mood Changes: Chronic ketamine use can lead to significant alterations in mood, including increased anxiety, depression, and mood swings. These mood changes can impact daily functioning and overall well-being.
Cognitive Impairment: Ketamine abuse can impair cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and decision-making abilities. Users may struggle with memory difficulties, have trouble focusing on tasks, and exhibit poor judgment.
Hallucinations and Dissociation: Ketamine is known for its hallucinogenic and dissociative effects, which can lead to altered perceptions of reality and dissociative experiences. Users may experience visual or auditory hallucinations, feel detached from their surroundings, or have out-of-body experiences.
Behavioral Symptoms
Prioritizing Ketamine Use: Individuals addicted to ketamine may prioritize obtaining and using the drug above all else, including responsibilities at work, school, or home. This can lead to neglect of important obligations and deterioration of personal relationships.
Social Withdrawal: Ketamine addiction can cause individuals to withdraw from social interactions and activities they once enjoyed. They may isolate themselves from friends and family in favor of spending time alone or with other ketamine users.
Financial Problems: Ketamine addiction can lead to financial difficulties due to the high cost of acquiring the drug. Users may spend significant amounts of money on ketamine, leading to financial instability, debt, and struggles to meet financial obligations.
Effects Of Ketamine Addiction
Physical Health Effects
Urinary Tract Problems: Chronic ketamine use can lead to inflammation and damage to the urinary tract, including the bladder and kidneys. This can result in frequent urination, pain during urination, and blood in the urine.
Bladder Dysfunction: Ketamine abuse can cause a condition known as ketamine-induced cystitis, characterized by bladder irritation, urinary urgency, and incontinence. Severe cases may require surgical intervention to address bladder damage.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Ketamine abuse has been associated with gastrointestinal complications such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. These symptoms can significantly impact digestive health and overall well-being.
Cardiovascular Complications: Ketamine use can lead to elevated blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, and increased risk of heart attack or stroke. Prolonged ketamine abuse may contribute to long-term cardiovascular damage and dysfunction.
Psychological Effects
Memory Loss: Ketamine addiction can impair memory function, leading to difficulties in remembering past events or forming new memories. Chronic ketamine use may result in both short-term and long-term memory deficits.
Cognitive Impairment: Individuals addicted to ketamine may experience difficulties with concentration, problem-solving, and decision-making. Cognitive impairment can impact daily functioning and overall cognitive abilities.
Psychiatric Disorders: Ketamine abuse has been linked to the development or exacerbation of psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis. These mental health conditions can significantly impair quality of life and require specialized treatment.
Social Effects
Social Withdrawal: Ketamine addiction can lead to withdrawal from social interactions, isolating individuals from friends, family, and support networks. Social withdrawal may result in feelings of loneliness, alienation, and disconnection from others.
Relationship Strain: Ketamine addiction can strain relationships with loved ones, leading to conflict, mistrust, and communication breakdowns. Family dynamics may be disrupted, and friendships may deteriorate as a result of ketamine abuse.
Occupational Impairment: Ketamine addiction can interfere with work or school responsibilities, resulting in decreased productivity, absenteeism, or job loss. Occupational impairment may lead to financial instability and socioeconomic challenges for individuals struggling with ketamine addiction.
Legal Consequences
Criminal Charges: Possession and use of ketamine for non-medical purposes are illegal in many jurisdictions. Individuals engaged in ketamine abuse may face arrest, fines, and legal penalties.
Legal Proceedings: Ketamine addiction can lead to involvement in legal proceedings such as court appearances, probation, or incarceration. Legal consequences can have long-lasting impacts on personal and professional life.
What Are Some Treatments For Someone Addicted To Ketamine?
Treatment for ketamine addiction typically involves a comprehensive approach that addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction. Some effective treatments include:
Detoxification: Medically supervised detox programs help individuals safely manage withdrawal symptoms as they abstain from ketamine use.
Therapy: Behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) help individuals identify triggers, develop coping skills, and modify maladaptive thought patterns associated with addiction.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Certain medications may be prescribed to help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms, particularly during the early stages of recovery.
Support Groups: Participation in support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or SMART Recovery provides peer support, encouragement, and accountability throughout the recovery process.
First City Recovery offers a range of evidence-based treatments for individuals struggling to overcome addiction. Our specialized programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, providing personalized care and support on the journey to recovery.
Contact us today to learn more about our ketamine addiction treatment options and take the first step toward a healthier, substance-free life.
MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Vahid Osman, MD is a psychiatry specialist in Indianapolis, IN.
Dr. Osman completed a residency at Austin State Hospital. He has over 32 years of experience in Psychiatry & Behavioral Health. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
