Is Ketamine Addictive: Signs and Symptoms

Understanding Ketamine and Its Uses

What Is Ketamine?

Ketamine is an FDA-approved medication used effectively in general anesthesia for sedation in brief medical procedures. 

More specifically, ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic, which means it has dissociative effects that cause you to feel separated or detached from your body or physical environment. Ketamine also has other unique physical and psychological effects, such as memory loss, hallucinations, and euphoria.

How Is Ketamine Used in Mental Health Treatment?

In recent years, healthcare providers have also used ketamine to treat mental health disorders like treatment-resistant depression. 

Further, ketamine is being used to treat severe forms of anxiety and suicidality. Ketamine is seen as a rising star in mental health treatment because of its success in treating severe, debilitating conditions, where first-line medications have been ineffective.

As stated by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly 3 million people in the United States have treatment-resistant depression. The prevalence of severe mental health disorders, like treatment-resistant depression, highlights the need for effective treatment options.

In addition to treatment for mental health issues, ketamine has been used off-label for pain management. Research has shown that ketamine is invaluable in pain management for treating severe pain in conditions like trauma, fractures, and chronic pain. Thus, the use of ketamine can have a significant impact on your physical and mental well-being.

However, the benefits of ketamine use come with some concerning risk factors. Much like opioid drug use, ketamine use can lead to physical dependence and psychological dependence. Therefore, when determining the best course of treatment for yourself or a loved one, asking the question, “Is ketamine addictive?” is important.

Why Do People Misuse or Abuse Ketamine?

Each person is different, so there are several reasons why someone may misuse or abuse ketamine, including:

• Situational use
  • Self-medication is used to cope with difficult situations and emotions
    • Peer pressure
    • Stress
    • Anxiety in social situations
    • Other mental health issues
      • Depression
    • Traumatic and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)
      • Sexual assault and abuse
      • Physical abuse and neglect
      • Emotional abuse and neglect
• Experimental use
  • Many may experiment with drug use, especially in adolescence, due to curiosity
    • Having friends or family members who misuse or abuse substances
    • Feeling pressure to fit in with peers or to seem cool
• Recreational use
  • You or a loved one may engage in substance abuse because of how it makes you feel
    • For enjoyment and pleasure
    • To enhance mood and social situations 
    • Trying to experience different effects based on the type of drugs
      • Increased energy
      • Greater self-confidence
      • Feeling powerful
      • Increases satisfaction
      • Greater relaxation
• Productivity use
  • Stress or worry about your performance at work, school, or in sports can contribute to drug use
    • You misuse or abuse substances to improve your focus
    • Increase the speed at which you complete tasks
    • Improve your ability in different physical activities
• Dependent use
  • Prolonged or heavy drug abuse can lead to physical dependence 
    • You feel like you have to keep taking drugs at higher doses to feel normal
    • Seeking higher doses out of fear of experiencing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms 

The risk for ketamine abuse in particular is increased by the same unique properties that made it popular as a surgical anesthetic.

According to the British Journal of General Practice, as an anesthetic, ketamine is popular for keeping respiration intact, acute and chronic pain management, and its safety profile and tolerance. In addition to its hallucinogenic and other dissociative effects, the risk for ketamine misuse and abuse increases due to its low cost and short duration of action.

Its low cost, short-acting, and dissociative effects have made ketamine particularly popular among teens and young adults in the rave and nightclub scene.

Among partiers, the recreational use of ketamine has shot it into party drug fame among well-known substances like LSD and PCP. In the recreational drug club scene, ketamine goes by many names, like Special K and Vitamin K, and has its own slang, such as K-hole and K-land.

Addiction Potential of Ketamine

Can You Become Addicted to Ketamine?

Yes, ketamine misuse and abuse can turn into ketamine addiction. 

The use of ketamine can lead to changes in your brain that contribute to regulating mood, reward, and cognition. Alterations in your brain chemistry from ketamine abuse can trigger cravings and psychological dependence on the substance.

Ketamine use can lead to physical dependence, much like the physical dependence found in alcohol and opioid drugs. However, ketamine has an even stronger psychological dependence that leads to a compulsive desire to consume ketamine. Your compulsive need to use and abuse ketamine is so strong that it overshadows everything else, even when it causes clear physical, mental, and social issues in your life.

Further, your cravings and compulsive ketamine abuse can also contribute to tolerance. Drug addiction tolerance occurs when you need to take high doses to experience the same effects. Tolerance for higher doses showcases the physical dependence aspect of ketamine abuse.

Why Is Ketamine Addictive for Some People?

Much like drug addiction in general, several biological, psychological, social, behavioral, and environmental factors contribute to ketamine addiction:

• Biological
  • Genes that influence emotions, feelings, and actions
    • Dopamine regulation: influences the brain’s reward system
    • Emotional regulation: genes that impact your ability to manage emotions
    • GABA regulation: helps regulate brain activity
• Psychological
  • Trauma and other adverse experiences
    • Untreated mental health issues
      • Depression
      • Anxiety
    • Abusing ketamine to suppress or escape distressing thoughts and feelings
    • A lack of healthy coping strategies can lead to self-medication
    • Impulse control difficulties can contribute to substance abuse
• Social
  • Being encouraged or pressured by peers to use substances
• Behavioral
  • Taking ketamine in social settings as a recreational drug
  • Increasing ketamine use and or mixing it with other substances like alcohol or other drugs to intensify the effects
• Environmental
  • Early exposure to substances 
    • Loved ones who misuse or abuse substances
    • Easy access to drugs
  • Living in a high-stress environment
    • Tense work environments
    • Neighborhood violence
    • ACEs
    • Family dysfunction and other toxic relationships
    • Social exclusion and social isolation
    • Economic insecurity 

Understanding the factors that contribute to drug addiction and ketamine addiction in particular centers the question, “Is ketamine addictive?”. In general, yes, ketamine is addictive, but the risk versus reward for the therapeutic use of ketamine must be determined on a case-by-case basis.

What Makes Ketamine Addiction Different From Other Substances?

Other substances like opioid drugs rely heavily on physical dependence, while ketamine addiction is fueled by psychological dependence. 

The hallucinogenic and dissociative effects of ketamine give its psychological dependence a stronger hold over withdrawal symptoms. The toll of depression, loss of pleasure, and other psychological withdrawal symptoms deters disuse of ketamine.

In addition to its significant psychological dependence and withdrawal symptoms, ketamine can also come with severe side effects. Although other drugs like alcohol can contribute to organ damage, long-term use of ketamine can be devastating to your body.

Some of the long-term physical side effects of ketamine abuse include:

• Ketamine-induced cystitis
  • Significant damage to the bladder and kidneys
    • Frequent urination
    • Painful urination
    • Bloody urine
  • In some cases, the bladder becomes so small that it has to be removed
    • Resulting in permanent catheter use
• K-cramps
  • Severe abdominal pain  
    • When left untreated, it can lead to liver failure
• Other physical side effects of long-term ketamine use 
  • Kidney scarring
  • Inflammation of the liver
  • Stomach ulcers

Ketamine’s use as a recreational drug is often the root of ketamine misuse, abuse, and its most severe physical side effects. However, seeking help early for you or your loved one can make a world of difference for physical and psychological recovery.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Ketamine Addiction

Behavioral Signs of Ketamine Misuse

Some of the behavioral signs of ketamine misuse include:

• Periods of social withdrawal from loved ones
• Mood swings
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
• More aggression or violent behaviors while taking ketamine
• Increased risk-taking behavior
  • Driving under the influence
• Dissociated or detached behavior
  • Blank stares 
  • Difficulty completing tasks
• Neglecting responsibilities and obligations
  • Poor performance at work or school
  • Household tasks and responsibilities start piling up
• Increased preoccupation with finding or using ketamine
• The need to consume higher doses to achieve the same effect
• Using ketamine more frequently
• More agitation or irritability without access to ketamine
• Disorganized or unintelligible speech
• Other behavioral changes
  • Unusual or erratic behavior
  • You appear detached from reality

Many of the behavioral signs and symptoms of ketamine addiction can contribute to various issues that impede your well-being and life. Some of the ways behavioral changes from ketamine can disrupt your life include relationship conflict, problems at work or school, and legal issues.

Physical Symptoms of Ketamine Addiction

Listed below are some of the physical symptoms of ketamine addiction:

• Dilated pupils
• Red or watery eyes
• Vision changes
• Poor control of eye motions
• Increased pressure in the eyes and brain
• Slurred speech
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle stiffness, weakness, and twitching
• Tremors
• Numbness or tingling in the arms and legs
• Impaired Coordination
  • Loss of balance or clumsiness
• Dizziness
• Respiratory depression, or slowed or shallow breathing
• Long-term use
  • Frequent bladder issues
    • Chronic bladder pain
    • Increased urination
    • Urinary tract problems
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Chronic abdominal pain
• Physical symptoms from different methods of consumption
  • Snorting ketamine: nose sores or irritation
  • Injecting ketamine: track marks, abscesses, or bruises

The physical symptoms of ketamine use can stem from high doses, as well as short-term and long-term use.

Psychological Effects and Warning Signs

Some of the psychological effects of ketamine addiction include:

• Mood swings
  • You may be euphoric one moment, irritable or severely depressed in the next moment
• Other mental health issues
  • Low mood
  • Irritability
  • Fatigue
• Decreased interest in activities and hobbies 
• Cravings
• Memory loss
  • Difficulty concentrating and learning
• Hallucinations
• Paranoia
• Detachment
• Insomnia and other sleep disturbances
• Psychological symptoms of the long-term effects of ketamine abuse
  • Depression
• Higher doses of ketamine symptoms
  • Flashbacks
  • Amnesia
  • Trouble thinking clearly
  • Disorientation
  • Delirium
  • Feeling invulnerable

In addition to psychological symptoms, there are several social and emotional warning signs of ketamine addiction:

• Changes in activities
  • Hanging out with new friends
  • Pulling away from longstanding friends and other loved ones
  • Attending more late-night events
  • Social withdrawal and self-isolation
  • It becomes difficult to reach them for extended periods
  • No longer showing interest in activities and hobbies 
• Conversations seem more shallow or disjointed
• Increased secrecy
  • Password-protecting everything 
  • Hiding screens or conversations
  • Lying or being evasive about activities and whereabouts
• Spending excessive amounts of money to obtain ketamine
• Hidden paraphernalia
  • Nasal spray bottles
  • Baggies with substance residue
• Increased conflict and or distance from loved ones

The various signs of ketamine abuse further highlight how ketamine can impair every aspect of your life and well-being.

Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Ketamine Use

Short-Term Effects of Ketamine

The short-term side effects of ketamine use include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Increased heart rate
• Elevated blood pressure
• Increased respiratory rate and body temperature
• K-hole
  • Feeling disconnected from your body
• Difficulty moving or standing
• Sensation of lightness
  • Feeling like you are floating
• Hallucinations
• Disorientation and confusion
• Anxiety and panic attacks
• An overwhelming feeling of relaxation

Long-Term Effects of Ketamine Misuse

Some of the long-term side effects of ketamine misuse include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Psychosis
• Delusional thoughts
• Substance use disorder (SUD)
• Cravings
• Excessive sleepiness
• Respiratory issues
  • Lung damage
  • Respiratory depression
• Liver damage
• Urinary tract damage
  • Inflammation
  • Scarring
  • Ulcers in the bladder, urethra, and kidneys
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Frequent urination
  • In some cases, kidney failure
• Bladder issues
• Gastrointestinal Distress
• Cognitive impairment
  • Memory loss
  • Decreased executive functioning
  • Impaired learning capacity
  • Decreased attention span
  • Impaired problem-solving skills
• Musculoskeletal issues
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Weakness
  • In some cases, paralysis can occur

Withdrawal and Detox From Ketamine

What Are Ketamine Withdrawal Symptoms?

Ketamine addiction is primarily formed from psychological dependence, which includes withdrawal symptoms, such as:

• Intense cravings for ketamine
• Depression and anxiety
• Psychosis
  • Delusions and hallucinations
• Anxiety or panic attacks 
• Irritability
• Mood swings
• Restlessness and agitation
• Flashbacks
• Dissociation or derealization
  • A lingering feeling of detachment from your body or surroundings
• Irregular heart rate, palpitations, and blood pressure
• Elevated body temperature
• Sweating and chills 
• Shaking or tremors
• Muscle aches
• Nausea and loss of appetite
• Fatigue or low energy
• Headaches
• Nightmares and insomnia
• Other sleep issues
  • Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Impaired memory and concentration 
• Difficulty thinking clearly
• Brain fog
• Decreased motor skills
• Inability to feel pleasure
• Low motivation
• Emotional numbness
• Social withdrawal 

How Does Medical Detox Help With Ketamine Withdrawal?

Medical detox offers a safe and supportive environment for a more comfortable detox experience. 

Through medical detox, you will have 24/7 support from medical professionals and access to psychiatric care. With medical supervision, you access support to address physical withdrawal symptoms and ketamine’s intense psychological effects, which can be particularly beneficial for prolonged or heavy ketamine abuse.

Some of the other benefits of medical detox include access to evidence-based treatment before you transition from detox to a treatment program. You can already start understanding the psychological roots of your substance abuse and how to move from self-medication to building healthy coping strategies.

Ketamine Addiction Treatment at Profound Treatment

Why Choose Profound Treatment for Ketamine Detox

At Profound Treatment, you can find comprehensive, holistic, around-the-clock care in a comfortable and safe oasis.

Overlooking the scenic and relaxing landscape of Los Angeles, California, you will find luxury 24/7 medical supervision, medical monitoring, psychological care, and medication management to support you on your recovery journey.

Some of the other benefits of our medical detox services include a personalized treatment plan with psychiatry and addiction medicine treatment planning post-detox.

Frequently Asked Questions: Taking the First Step Toward Recovery

When to Seek Help for Ketamine Addiction

There is no right or wrong time to seek addiction treatment, as everyone’s journey is uniquely personal. 

Some vital reasons why you should seek ketamine addiction treatment include:

• Concerns about the impact of ketamine abuse on your physical and mental health
• Recognizing the toll addiction has taken on your relationships
• Facing the reality of the financial and legal consequences of ketamine addiction
• The desire for a better life with a purpose beyond drug abuse

Taking these first steps toward treatment and recovery can be daunting, but we are here to support and guide you every step of the way as you make this profound change.

How to Help a Loved One With Ketamine Addiction

Listed below are some of the ways you can help a loved one with ketamine addiction:

• Educate yourself about ketamine and ketamine addiction
• Share your concerns with your loved one without judgment or criticism
• Set aside plenty of time to talk to your loved one in a private space
• Offer to support them on their journey from detox and treatment to aftercare and alumni 
• Recognize that treatment and recovery are an ongoing process
  • Healing and recovery do not happen overnight
• Remember to take care of yourself
  • Have a strong support network
  • Make time for self-care
  • Seek professional help from a therapist

What Is the Difference Between Ketamine and Esketamine?

Ketamine is typically administered as an IV infusion, while esketamine can be administered as a nasal spray.

Studies have shown that ketamine can help generate new brain cells, which is effective for anti-depressive effects in the treatment of severe depression. Esketamine is a derivative of ketamine and is considered to be safer than ketamine because it allows for easier dosing and eliminates or significantly reduces dissociative and psychedelic side effects.

Educating yourself on the signs, symptoms, and root causes of ketamine addiction is invaluable to understanding its impact on your life and well-being. With knowledge, you can empower yourself to take the necessary steps toward treatment and recovery. Call Profound Treatment at (833) 737-3422 to learn how our compassionate care team can help support, encourage, and guide you on your healing journey.