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Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic approved by the FDA in the year 1970 and is used for anesthetic procedures, but it is also abused as a recreational drug. The drug is a derivative of phencyclidine and has sedating effects which gives a hallucinating experience.
Ketamine is a medically approved drug but also a Schedule III-controlled substance. There are high chances of physical and psychological dependence. The drug is commonly produced as a liquid but can also appear as a white powder.
What is Ketamine?
Ketamine is commonly used for anesthesia or sedation in certain medical procedures. It is generally in liquid form, which needs to be injected, and its effect generally wears off within 30 minutes.
The drug has street names like Vitamin K or Special K, Ket Jet, and sometimes Kit Kat too. One can only get this drug on a doctor’s prescription but when used illegally for recreational purposes, it gives an intoxicating effect like PCP. Its hallucinogenic and dissociative effects make it a commonly used drug among millions.
Effects of Ketamine Addiction on the Body
When ketamine is consumed for illicit purposes, it gives a full-body buzzing effect in a way that gives relaxation. The effects can differ based on the dosage and method of use.
Short-Term Effects of Ketamine Addiction
The effects of ketamine addiction can manifest quickly, causing various immediate symptoms:
- Dissociation from body and surroundings
- Altered perception of sight, sound, and touch
- Flashbacks of hallucinations
- Mood changes like euphoria, relaxation, or anxiety
- Motor function impairment
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Respiratory issues
- Paranoia
Long-Term Effects of Ketamine Addiction
The effects of ketamine addiction can have severe long-term impacts on physical and mental health:
- Bladder damage
- Muscle weakness
- Cognitive decline
- Cognitive health problems including depression, anxiety, and psychosis
- Psychological and physical addiction
Risks of Ketamine Use
Ketamine, though used medically as an anaesthetic and pain reliever, carries a significant risk profile, particularly when used for recreational purposes. To make an informed decision, one must understand the potential harms of the drug.
While some might find the drug helpful because of its dissociative effects, the potential for addiction, bladder damage, and cognitive decline should not be ignored.
Physical Risks
Chronic ketamine abuse is a major risk factor for ulcerative cystitis, a painful bladder condition that causes inflammation, cramping, and difficulty urinating. It also puts a significant strain on the cardiovascular system, particularly for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. High doses of ketamine lead to slowed breathing, potentially leading to serious complications or even death.
Metal and Emotional Risks
While some seek ketamine for its dissociative escape, the mental and emotional risks can be significant. Individuals can experience paranoia, anxiety, and even hallucinations which are generally unprecedented. Long-term abuse of ketamine is concerning for adolescents, as it can lead to cognitive decline, memory problems, and potential increased risk of developing mental health issues like depression or psychosis.
How Ketamine Addiction Develops
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that disrupts the brain’s reward system. The intake of ketamine releases dopamine in the brain, which creates feelings of euphoria. Over time, drug use leads to addiction as the brain depends on ketamine for heightened dopamine levels, and its natural ability to produce dopamine starts to diminish.
This dependence compels users to escalate their intake in pursuit of the same effects. Furthermore, as the body adjusts to consistent ketamine use, withdrawal symptoms can manifest when ketamine intake is reduced or stopped.
How is Ketamine Addiction Diagnosed
Diagnosing ketamine addiction will require a series of assessments. A healthcare professional, like a doctor or psychiatrist, will conduct a clinical interview to discuss an individual’s medical history, drug use patterns, frequency, and duration of use. They'll also evaluate one’s mental health condition, occupational functioning, and potential withdrawal symptoms.
The professional will assess the symptoms against specific criteria, which include level of tolerance for ketamine, intensity of withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite negative consequences.
They might also conduct a general physical check-up to identify any potential health problems related to ketamine use. In some cases, a mental health professional will evaluate any co-occurring mental health conditions.
When to Seek Help for Ketamine Addiction?
Early intervention is crucial for ketamine addiction, as it will increase the chance of lasting recovery. One should seek immediate help if they find themselves using ketamine in larger amounts.
One might have other signs as well, like intense urges to use, continued use despite having problems, or neglecting responsibilities when it’s high time to seek help. Using ketamine also brings life threatening situations like driving under the influence.
It’s crucial to ask for help if one is experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, trouble sleeping, or cravings. Additionally, mental health conditions like depression or anxiety can increase the risk of addiction and vice versa, so seeking Ketamine Addiction Treatment can address both issues simultaneously.
Treatment Options for Ketamine Addiction
Addressing the effects of ketamine addiction involves a multifaceted approach to treatment, ensuring comprehensive care and recovery:
Detoxification
Detoxification is the first step of treatment, which primarily focuses on eliminating ketamine from the body. The detox stage safely manages withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, depression, insomnia, fatigue, cravings, difficulty concentrating, and muscle aches.
Detoxification can occur in a medical facility under the supervision of a professional, or one can detox at home with regular check-ins with a healthcare professional.
As it is the initial step, the duration may vary from days to weeks, depending on the severity of the addiction.
Therapy and Counseling
Therapy is an effective treatment option for ketamine addiction. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps identify and change negative thought patterns that might be causing ketamine addiction. CBT also equips an individual with effective coping skills.
With dialectical behavioural therapy, one can develop healthy coping strategies to manage difficult emotions. Other therapies that help with ketamine addiction include individual therapy and group therapy.
Therapy and counselling help an individual process past traumas, address mental health conditions, and achieve lasting recovery.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
Medication is not the first line of treatment option for ketamine addiction as there is no FDA approved medication to help with this addiction. However, medication along with therapy and counseling can manage various symptoms and cravings associated with ketamine.
If an individual has a mental health condition like depression or anxiety that might be contributing to ketamine abuse, medication can help treat those issues. Medication can also help an individual focus on therapy.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation programs provide a structured environment for an individual addicted to ketamine to recover. Whether it’s an inpatient rehab or outpatient rehab, individuals get treatment and support in a safe and controlled space.
Inpatient rehabilitation can be intense, which involves individual and group therapy sessions, learning relapse prevention strategies, and medical care. It is a good option for individuals with severe addiction and for those who find it difficult to manage their addiction through an outpatient setting.
Outpatient rehabilitation allows an addict to recover while continuing to live at home. The treatment structure is similar to inpatient rehab, but this approach offers more flexibility. Based on the severity of their addiction, individuals can choose the most appropriate treatment path.
What Type of Doctors Can Treat Ketamine Addiction?
Treating ketamine addiction involves a collaborative effort of various healthcare professionals. Addiction specialists are doctors who have additional training and certification in Ketamine addiction treatment.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who help with mental health conditions, for ketamine addiction they can conduct a comprehensive evaluation for co-occurring mental health conditions and prescribe medications if necessary.
Psychologists and therapists conduct various therapies to treat the underlying cause of addiction. They equip individuals with healthy coping skills to manage cravings and achieve lasting recovery.
Additionally, physicians can monitor overall health and manage withdrawal symptoms that fall within their scope. Anesthesiologists can also help with ketamine addiction by teaching specific pain management techniques.
For lasting recovery seeking help from experienced healthcare professionals is crucial.
What are the Effects of Ketamine Withdrawal?
Withdrawal symptoms of ketamine are primarily psychological, but there are some physical effects as well. Psychological effects like cravings, mood swings, insomnia, psychosis are generally witnessed as withdrawal symptoms.
Common physical symptoms include nausea, vomiting, shakes or tremors, sweating, and headaches. Individuals may experience these effects typically in the beginning of detoxification.
These symptoms can feel daunting but generally they subside within a few days or a week of detoxification. The important thing is to seek professional help during this phase for a comfortable withdrawal process.
How Cadabams Rehabilitation Center Can Help
For over 30 years, Cadabam’s has been a leading name in the mental healthcare sector; we’ve helped many individuals struggling with addiction. Our experienced team of professionals leverages cutting-edge resources to deliver the most effective Ketamine Addiction treatment. Our evidence-based programs are crafted to support and guide you on your path to lasting recovery from ketamine addiction.
If you are searching for a solution to your problem, Cadabams Anunitha’s De-Addiction Centre can help you with its team of specialised experts. We have been helping thousands of people live healthier and happier lives. We leverage evidence-based approaches and holistic Ketamine Addiction treatment methods to help individuals effectively manage Ketamine addiction. Get in touch with us today. You can call us at +91 96111 94949.