Ketamine is a dissociative drug that is commonly used in veterinary practice and was once used in human surgical practice but later pulled from use due to the dangers involved with the use of the drug. Today, ketamine is considered an animal tranquilizer that should not be abused in any capacity by humans. However, many seek the dissociative high that comes from the use of this drug. As such, abuse of ketamine often leads to addiction and a subsequent need for treatment.
What Does Ketamine Taste Like?
A mild tasting, almost colorless, nearly odorless drug, Ketamine is often slipped into the drinks of unsuspecting users at night clubs. This drug is also commonly found in MDMA or cocaine that has been mixed with ketamine to produce intense euphoria and out of body experiences.
The drug is generally snorted, but smoking or oral consumption can also take place. When added to food or drink, the drug is almost undetectable. In high doses, ketamine will cause intense feelings of sleep, and lethargy.
Because ketamine is not used for human surgical practice any longer, any human consumption of the drug is considered abuse. If you suspect that someone you love may be abusing ketamine, call our helpline toll free for immediate assistance in finding and choosing a treatment program that can help.
Common signs of ketamine abuse may include:
- Slurred speech
- Acting out of touch with reality
- Changes in personal appearance
- Changes in friends
- Impaired motor skills or inability to walk or talk
- Violent outbursts
- Risky behaviors
People taking ketamine can exhibit a wide range of mental, physical and social changes. Initially, the drug use may go undetected for quite some time, but as abuse gradually turns to addiction, the behaviors and tendencies of the addict generally become more visible and the need for help more dire.
Long term use of ketamine can lead to physical tolerance and a need for more of the drug in order to produce the same effects. Consistently using this drug will lead to dependence that requires professional treatment. If you suspect that you or someone you care about is addicted to ketamine, seek professional help right away.
Common signs of ketamine addiction can include:
- Persistent violence or outbursts
- Erratic behavior
- Acting sleepy, slow or otherwise immobile at times
- Getting upset or otherwise unhappy when there is no ketamine available
- Taking risks such as abusing ketamine alongside other drugs or alcohol
- Spending excessive amounts of money on ketamine
- Buying ketamine instead of paying bills
- Lack of care for one’s self
- Changes in personal appearance or hygiene
- Changes in mood
Ketamine Addiction Treatment
If you or someone you love is addicted to ketamine, the only surefire hope for sobriety and healing is to seek treatment. Depending on the severity of the addiction, you may require long term care. Often times, detox, counseling and long periods of aftercare are necessary in order to promote full healing from an addiction such as this.
Talk with your doctor about the options available to assist you in recovery, or call our helpline for answers. Treatment is available in various styles to help those who have become addicted. Consider the following options:
- Residential care
- Outpatient care
- Support groups
- Behavioral therapy
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
Call our helpline at 800-601-3889 for assistance in finding and choosing a ketamine addiction treatment center that’s right for you.