Ketamine is a powerful, hallucinogenic drug that was initially designed for use in a medical setting. For some time, veterinary hospitals have used Ketamine as an anesthetic. Unfortunately, it better known as a nightclub drug, and it is easily abused in establishments across America. These users have a misconception that Ketamine is non-addictive, and they are not having drugs abuse with Ketamine. In reality, Ketamine is not only a very real drug, but it is also very dangerous since it causes its user to feel “out of their body.” If an individual is using Ketamine as an anesthetic, it can be injected or given through an IV. Ketamine can also be made into a power, which can be snorted by the user.
When the drug is injected, effects are felt within a few seconds. When it is snorted, there may be a lag time that lasts anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes. The drug takes effect shortly after. While Ketamine is not physically addictive, it can be psychologically damaging. The individuals who abuse this drug may refer to it by using a variety of street names, such as Green, Special K, Super C, Cat Valium and K.
Addiction begins when a physical or psychological tolerance has been developed. This occurs when an individual uses a drug multiple times, and on many occasions. The increase in tolerance makes the individual desire the drug even more.
Since the addiction is psychologically based, the user may not experience physical side effects once the addict stops using. This should not take away from the dangers of Ketamine. Chronic use of Ketamine can result in an increase of habitual behaviors that are associated with drug cravings.
Those who have used Ketamine recreationally say that the drug should not be taken unless you are in a stable mood. They state that when you take the drug when you are happy, you experience a “good trip.” If an individual uses Ketamine while depressed or anxious, the drug magnifies those feelings. Users have described their bad trips as being similar to nightmares. The only difference between the bad trip and the nightmares, is that the individual has to “ride it out” to the end of the bad trip, no matter how long it takes.
After an individual has taken Ketamine for a prolonged period of time, they begin to associate Ketamine with pleasurable experiences. Unfortunately, the psychological addiction can result in the user continuously ingesting the drug in order to keep the experience going.
This drug can cause serious withdrawal symptoms that begin almost immediately. If you (or someone you know) may have an addiction to Ketamine, consider speaking to a medical professional. They can assist you in picking the right treatment option for you. There are many treatment options available to those who have chosen to be in treatment, i.e., group therapy, family therapy, individual therapy, treatment facilities, and 12-step programs. Individuals who have participated in these programs have been able to overcome their ketamine addiction and lead happy and balanced lives.