The Long-Term Effects of Ketamine Addiction

Ketamine addiction can take a toll on anyone’s life. Symptoms may not be noticeable from the start but can quickly progress over time. Long-term effects of ketamine abuse can take hold on an individual’s life. Eventually, one may experience a poor quality of life if their addiction is not addressed by a mental health professional and addiction specialist.  

Once addiction is in full force, surrendering to treatment with Restoration Recovery can significantly improve an individual’s mental and physical well-being. Our facility’s drug rehab program was developed to help individuals craft a special path toward long-term, successful recovery.  

What Is Ketamine and How Is It Misused?

As stated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), ketamine is an anesthetic commonly known as a “club drug.” When an individual uses these types of drugs, they may experience distorted perceptions of sound and sight. Therefore, an individual may present mental instability and hallucinations. One may feel poorly disconnected from others and completely out of control. 

In a medical setting, ketamine is used to manage pain and treat mood disorders such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). When the drug is administered, an individual may feel intensely relaxed and pain-free, with no memory of the traumatic event (in cases of PTSD). Due to these pleasant effects, ketamine is widely misused by many individuals to achieve dissociative effects or self-medicate co-occurring mental health conditions. 

Adverse Effects of Ketamine Addiction

According to Ketamine Toxicity, a journal written by Vwaire J. Orhurhu, Rishik Vashisht, Lauren E. Claus, and Steven P. Cohen, although ketamine overdose is quite uncommon, the risk of death due to accidents from misuse is still prevalent. Based on recent studies, ketamine drug use has one of the highest mortality rates. For example, according to a longitudinal case, two individuals passed away within just one year from hypothermia and drowning in a bathtub. 

Scientifically, ketamine stimulates the body’s sympathetic nervous system. This results in dangerously increasing heart rates, problems with blood pressure, and cardiac output. Individuals with underlying cardiac issues are at an increased risk of having a stroke and other complications. Those who chronically misuse ketamine may develop ulcerative cystitis. Coming from a psychiatric standpoint, individuals may experience vivid dreams and hallucinations that may recur weeks after using the drug. Individuals may also present symptoms such as: 

• Depression
• Memory impairment
• Lack of concentration
• Ketamine dependence
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Irregular sleep patterns
• Amnesia
• Infectious diseases
• Respiratory complications

Ketamine Toxicity

As stated in the aforementioned Ketamine Toxicity study, depending on the amount used and chosen administration, the effects associated with ketamine intoxication last approximately 15 minutes to many hours. Individuals encountering ketamine toxicity may experience: 

• Impaired consciousness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Abdominal complications
• Neurological problems
• Trauma
• Genitourinary

Taking time to understand the risks of ketamine addiction and potential overdose can potentially save a life. Staying educated on the effects of addiction can spread the public awareness needed in the community. 

Negative Impact of Ketamine Addiction

Some individuals may feel as if ketamine is consuming their entire life. One may avoid social outings and interacting with others to use ketamine. Ketamine addiction can lead to stealing from family, friends, and strangers to gain the desirable effects of the drug. The urge to use the substance can distract an individual from daily priorities; therefore, it can be extremely difficult to maintain employment, keep healthy long-term relationships, and focus academically. 

Ketamine addiction can spiral out of control, but recovery is possible. Everyone deserves to heal.

How Restoration Recovery Can Help Individuals Move Forward From Ketamine Addiction

It may be a difficult decision to surrender to addiction and mental health treatment. Circling the drain may feel overwhelming. Addiction can come with intense feelings of guilt, blame, and anger. Therefore, some individuals may feel there is no way out. However, with help from family, friends, and loved ones, simple direction can guide an individual to the appropriate treatment center that works to tailor their services to a person’s specific needs. This can promote a better outcome. 

Choosing to receive professional and emotional support from Restoration Recovery can significantly impact an individual’s life for the better. Different areas in an individual’s life have been proven to improve with treatment for ketamine addiction. Our clients have developed a sense of confidence and better self-esteem in our program. Various treatment options are available to assist individuals who are facing challenges with ketamine addiction. 

Restoration Recovery offers hope to those that are struggling with their everyday life. Not only do we offer substance abuse services and different programs, but we also treat dual-diagnosis disorders. Trauma therapy may also be a beneficial option to explore, as untreated trauma is often the culprit of addiction. Additionally, Christian counseling can be a healthy foundation for individuals who are looking for spiritual guidance and support as well. 

It can be incredibly difficult to manage life expectations with ketamine addiction. At Restoration Recovery Center, our drug rehab near Sacramento helps those struggling with a multitude of different drug addictions. Our enhanced programs can help you create new paths in recovery. Established in May 2017 in Auburn, California, Restoration Recovery Center is a product of the desire of a group of experienced therapists who wish to help those struggling with substance use disorder recover. For individuals who want to integrate faith into their recovery, our Christian rehab program helps clients utilize their spirituality as a catalyst for addiction recovery. Call (888) 290-0925 and our team would be happy to develop an individualized treatment plan for you.