Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic medication primarily used in medical settings for anesthesia induction and pain management. It is commonly misused for its hallucinogenic and euphoric effects – resulting in health risks that include addiction, cognitive impairment, respiratory issues and ketamine bladder syndrome.
“Serious and frequently irreversible damage to the urinary tract is a recently recognised side effect of recreational ketamine use” – BMJ Case Reports
Ketamine’s recreational use is increasing, especially among people aged 16 to 25. At One Step, we have seen firsthand the consequences of ketamine addiction, particularly with young adults coming from the United Kingdom.
Originally developed as an anesthetic in the 1950s and later used as a horse tranquilizer, ketamine became a popular party drug in the 1980s. Today, it ranks just behind cannabis, cocaine, and nitrous oxide in popularity among young adults.
Between 2019 and 2023, ketamine use among young adults rose by 31 percent, with the Home Office estimating that nearly 300,000 adults in the United Kingdom used the drug over the past year.
Abusing ketamine comes with risks:
A detoxification from ketamine is the process of eliminating the drug from the body and managing withdrawal symptoms that can arise when ceasing its use. While ketamine withdrawal is typically less severe compared to other substances, such as opioids or benzodiazepines, it can still present challenges.
During ketamine withdrawal, you may experience psychological symptoms such as cravings, mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Physical symptoms are less common but include fatigue and difficulty sleeping. A detox should occur under medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure patient safety.
It is important that the treatment of ketamine addiction is tailored to the individual’s needs. A combination of pharmacological and behavioral therapies can provide optimal outcomes. Holistic therapies and activities can also provide therapeutic benefits.
Following detox, therapy and counseling play a crucial role in addressing underlying issues. Learning coping skills and developing relapse prevention strategies are important components during treatment. Post-treatment support groups and aftercare provide ongoing support and resources for the best chance of maintaining recovery.
Treatment for ketamine addiction at One Step Rehab involves a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Our treatment program is unlike that of any other treatment center in Thailand. Our One Step to recovery program has a proven track record of delivering successful outcomes and long-term abstinence.