Signs Of Ketamine Addiction

Signs of ketamine addiction include using more ketamine over time, developing issues with social and occupational functioning, and experiencing severe physical and emotional problems.

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Signs Of Ketamine Addiction And Abuse

Abusing ketamine and being addicted to ketamine share many characteristics, but they are not the same thing. Someone who is abusing ketamine recurrently uses the drug in harmful or hazardous situations. In contrast, someone with ketamine addiction will lose control over their use of the drug and have signs of dependence.

A person with a ketamine addiction will have difficulty stopping and may experience withdrawal symptoms.

Ketamine Abuse

Ketamine abuse refers to the recurring use of the drug in a way that causes harm or puts someone at risk (such as while driving, working, or caring for children).

Symptoms of ketamine abuse include:

  • Difficulty with memory and attention
  • Psychosis or delusional thinking
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Difficulty balancing or walking
  • Dizziness
  • Altered consciousness
  • Hallucinations or altered perceptions of reality
  • Disorganized speech or appearing disconnected from surroundings

Ketamine abuse can easily turn into ketamine addiction when the body becomes habituated to using it regularly. The more often ketamine is abused, the more likely a person is to develop health problems and addiction.

Ketamine Addiction

Ketamine addiction happens when a person cannot stop using the drug despite experiencing harm or negative consequences in their life. They may also develop a tolerance, meaning they require increasingly larger doses of ketamine to achieve the same effect. If they stop using ketamine, they may experience ketamine withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

Some ketamine addiction symptoms include:

  • Continued use despite physical problems from the drug
  • Mental health problems (such as low mood, irritability, and fatigue)
  • Relationship problems
  • Work problems
  • Decreased interest in recreational activities
  • Neglecting responsibilities
  • Spending significant amounts of time obtaining, using, or recovering from ketamine use

Using ketamine long-term may lead to physical health conditions like:

The effects of ketamine addiction typically go away when the drug is stopped, but it may be challenging to do so due to physical and psychological dependence. Recognizing the warning signs of ketamine use and addiction can help prevent more serious health problems down the road.

How To Identify A Problem With Ketamine Use

When identifying a ketamine addiction, it’s essential to look beyond frequency of use and consider behavioral and emotional changes. Substance use disorders, including ketamine addiction, are diagnosed based on a combination of behavioral and physical symptoms.

It is essential to ask about drug use, rather than solely relying on drug testing, because drug screens are not always reliable. Ketamine is not a standard test on drug screens. Healthcare providers often use criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to assess whether someone meets the requirements for a substance use disorder. If multiple criteria are present, it may indicate a more severe condition.

Some key signs include:

  • Loss of control over how much or how often ketamine is used
  • Continued use despite harm to relationships, work, or health
  • Avoiding once important activities
  • Cravings
  • Using larger amounts and over a more extended period
  • Spending large amounts of time using ketamine
  • Attempts to stop using
  • Hazardous use of ketamine
  • Withdrawal symptoms (cravings, low mood, anxiety, or irritability)
  • Impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning
  • Physical signs, such as bladder symptoms or liver damage

A ketamine addiction is identified by either short-term or long-term physical and psychological symptoms, interference with functioning, and fulfillment of at least two criteria over 12 months.

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Ketamine Therapy Vs. Ketamine Abuse

It is important to distinguish between therapeutic ketamine use and misuse.

Ketamine is a Schedule III controlled substance, meaning it has accepted medical uses but also has the potential for abuse and dependence. It should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider and not for recreational purposes.

Therapeutic ketamine is used in carefully controlled medical environments to treat conditions such as:

Therapeutic ketamine is approved for the treatment of mental health conditions due to its effect on neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to form new connections. This is especially helpful for people with depression and suicidal thoughts because it can work faster than traditional antidepressants. The intranasal esketamine (a mirror image molecule of ketamine) is used for depression that doesn’t respond to other treatment options.

Therapeutic ketamine plays a vital role for many people with life-threatening mental health problems. This use of the medication is performed in highly controlled environments within clinical settings, under the supervision of highly trained healthcare providers. The dose of ketamine in therapeutic settings is calculated, and patients are often monitored with cardiac and oxygen monitoring if the drug is given intravenously. When ketamine is administered therapeutically, it is used much less frequently and in lower doses, and it has a low risk for addiction.

You should never attempt to treat yourself for a mental health condition with ketamine or any other substance because it can be harmful and set you up for a possible addiction. If you are having trouble with depression, anxiety, or thoughts of suicide, it is crucial to seek help immediately from a qualified mental health professional.

For immediate assistance, you can call or text 988 to connect with someone at the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 24 hours a day.

Conversely, ketamine abuse happens when a person takes ketamine recreationally, outside of the care of a healthcare provider. People who abuse ketamine typically have a much higher exposure (sometimes up to 90 times the therapeutic amount). Abuse can be dangerous and lead to severe complications. If you are having psychiatric symptoms, it is essential to seek care and obtain the right kind of therapy and treatment medication.

Signs That Someone Is Using Ketamine

If you are worried about a friend or loved one, it is not always easy to tell if they are misusing ketamine. They may try to hide their use or downplay its impact on their life. Certain behaviors and physical changes can raise red flags.

Behavioral signs of ketamine abuse may include:

  • Acting dissociated or detached from reality (this might look like blank stares or difficulty completing tasks)
  • Disorganized or unintelligible speech
  • Mood swings, depression, anxiety, or irritability
  • Withdrawing from family or friends
  • Trouble functioning at work or in school
  • Evidence of use, such as small vials, white powder, or other drug paraphernalia
  • Unexplained financial or legal problems

When someone is acutely intoxicated with ketamine, you might notice:

  • Involuntary rapid eye movement
  • Dilated pupils
  • Increased salivation
  • Tearing
  • Muscle stiffness

If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to approach the person with care and concern and seek professional ketamine addiction treatment.

How To Help Someone With A Ketamine Addiction

Supporting someone with a ketamine addiction can be emotionally challenging, especially if they are not interested in getting help. You may feel helpless or unsure of what to say. However, your support can make a real difference.

Here are some ways you can help:

  • Approach with compassion. Avoid blame or confrontation. Express concern based on specific behaviors you have observed rather than accusations.
  • Share information. Let them know that ketamine can be harmful and that addiction is a medical condition. It may be helpful to share this list of signs with them.
  • Encourage treatment. Offer to help them research treatment options, attend an appointment, or talk to a healthcare provider. You may also consider staging an intervention if previous discussions about treatment have been unsuccessful.
  • Take care of yourself. Supporting someone with a substance use disorder can be emotionally draining. Set boundaries and seek support when needed.

Addiction treatment often requires a structured approach with behavioral therapy, counseling, and sometimes medication assistance. Since ketamine can cause urinary tract, gastrointestinal, and psychiatric effects, consultation with a healthcare provider is warranted. If the person you are trying to help is resistant, consider speaking with an addiction specialist.

What To Do If You Recognize The Signs Of Ketamine Addiction In Yourself

If you notice that you are having trouble controlling your ketamine use, experiencing cravings, or seeing it interfere with your life, know that you are not alone. Acknowledging the problem is a courageous first step.

Treatment programs are available that offer safe and non-judgmental environments to support recovery. You don’t have to wait until things get worse to seek support. Contact a treatment provider today to discuss your treatment options.

It can be challenging to stop on your own. It can also be helpful to reach out for help from a treatment program that can provide the support and structure necessary to stop using ketamine safely. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it is an act of strength and self-care that can set you on the pathway to healing.

Finding The Path Forward

Ketamine can have powerful effects, both therapeutic and harmful. Recreational use can easily lead to addiction, health problems, emotional distress, and damaged lives.

Recovery is possible, and many people who seek treatment go on to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. If you’re ready to take the first step or want to learn more about options for yourself or a loved one, contact a treatment provider or explore our rehab directory to get started today.

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