Ketamine, once known primarily as an anaesthetic used in hospitals, has become a substance with far-reaching effects beyond clinical settings. While its medical benefits are undeniable, ketamine’s misuse has led to a condition known as Ketamine Use Disorder (KUD). This condition not only impacts the physical body but also wreaks havoc on mental health.

Today, we dig deeper into the physical and psychological symptoms linked to KUD, drawing on new research from over 274 individuals coping with problematic ketamine use. This data sheds light on the unseen dangers of this substance, offering crucial insight into how misuse develops and its long-term outcomes.

Read on as we explore the symptoms, patterns, and realities of ketamine misuse that everyone should be aware of.

Understanding Ketamine Use Disorder and Its Rising Prevalence

Ketamine is a glutamatergic N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist widely used for anaesthesia and pain relief. More recently, it has gained traction for its psychiatric applications, particularly for managing treatment-resistant depression. However, this newfound popularity has had unintended consequences.

Telemedicine services offering at-home ketamine therapy have made the substance more accessible than ever. Unfortunately, over 50% of users reportedly exceed recommended dosages, leading to dependence and life-altering consequences. Similarly, misuse is on the rise recreationally, with significant increases reported among young people in both the US and UK. This escalation of ketamine use has placed additional strain on healthcare systems and revealed gaps in understanding and treating Ketamine Use Disorder.

Why Is Ketamine Misuse so Dangerous?

Ketamine use is not always perceived with the same seriousness as other substance dependencies. However, when consumed frequently or in large amounts, ketamine can lead to profound physical and psychological health problems. From bladder and gastrointestinal damage to cognitive decline and mental health disorders, the consequences of misuse are diverse and severe.

Physical Symptoms of Ketamine Use Disorder

The Impact on the Body

One of the most concerning physical impacts of KUD is the prevalence of “K-cramps,” a painful abdominal condition caused by chronic ketamine use. The recent study revealed that 56% of individuals with KUD suffered from this condition, nearly double the figures previously reported.

Beyond K-cramps, additional physical effects include:

• Bladder Dysfunction (60%): Long-term ketamine use can severely damage the bladder, leading to complications such as cystitis.
• Nasal Problems (60%): Individuals who snort ketamine commonly experience nasal tissue damage and blockages.
• Gastrointestinal Issues (56%): Digestive discomfort and pain are frequent complaints.

Withdrawal Symptoms

When individuals attempt to abstain, withdrawal symptoms amplify the physical toll. The research highlighted common issues such as:

• Cravings (71%)
• Fatigue and shaking
• Palpitations and sleep disturbances

These symptoms contribute to relapse and make the process of quitting incredibly challenging without support.

The Psychological Symptoms of Ketamine Use Disorder

While the physical consequences are concerning, the psychological effects can be equally, if not more, debilitating.

• Depression and Anxiety (62% and 59%, respectively): Ironically, although ketamine is clinically prescribed to combat depression, its misuse has the opposite effect when taken in large or frequent amounts.
• Cognitive Impairments: Long-term ketamine users often struggle with memory and concentration issues.
• Psychosis and Irritability (45%): Prolonged use alters brain structure, leading to persistent mental health conditions.
• Sleep Disorders and Delusions during withdrawal.

These psychological ramifications highlight the stark contradiction between ketamine’s therapeutic promise and the dangers of unmanaged use.

Patterns and Barriers to Treatment

How and Why People Use Ketamine

The study found that users consumed an average of 2.0 grams of ketamine daily, with some treatment-seeking individuals consuming as much as 2.67 grams per day. The primary motivations for ketamine misuse included:

• A desire for dissociation (73%)
• Chasing its psychedelic effects (56%)
• Self-medication for underlying mental health conditions (53%)

Lack of Awareness and Support

Despite the significant health risks, the study found that only 40% of participants sought treatment for KUD. Barriers to seeking help included:

• Fear of judgement (42%) and privacy concerns (35%)
• Lack of awareness about treatment options (29%)
• Affordability challenges

Among those who did seek treatment, only 36% were satisfied with the care they received. Many reported that healthcare providers lacked the knowledge or resources needed to treat ketamine-specific issues effectively. This paints a troubling picture of unaddressed health needs for those struggling with addiction.

The Role of Education and Outreach

A striking statistic from the study revealed that 59% of participants felt there was inadequate awareness about the risks of ketamine misuse. Many noted that its increasing reputation as a therapy overshadowed its addictive potential. Younger people, in particular, are vulnerable, with data showing a threefold increase in ketamine use among under-25s in the UK since 2016.

Education is critical to addressing the spread of KUD. Many individuals simply don’t know how dangerous ketamine can be until their dependency is already well established. One participant starkly referred to ketamine as “the heroin of our generation,” emphasizing the generational blind spot in recognising its risks.

Next Steps for Addressing Ketamine Use Disorder

The complexity of KUD requires a multi-faceted response that includes:

• Awareness Campaigns to dispel misconceptions about ketamine’s risks among the public.
• Training for Healthcare Providers to improve understanding and care strategies for those with KUD.
• Accessible Treatment Options that consider affordability and integrate into daily life.
• Ongoing Research to better understand the long-term consequences of chronic ketamine use.

By taking these steps, we can address the growing challenge of KUD and provide meaningful support to those affected. Learn more