When choosing a treatment facility, it’s important to consider factors like the availability of medical professionals, evidence-based therapies, and the individual’s specific needs. Consulting with healthcare providers or addiction specialists helps determine the best course of action for recovery. The biological factors that contribute to ketamine addiction addiction are genes that affect dopamine regulation in the brain’s reward system. These factors include genetic predispositions, neurochemical changes, and alterations in brain function that make some individuals more vulnerable to dependency. For example, variations in genes like DRD2 affect dopamine receptors, making it harder for some people to feel pleasure without external stimulation, leading to increased substance use. According to Morgan and Curran (2012), ketamine use can lead to lasting changes in brain function, increasing the risk of addiction over time.

Warning Signs of Ketamine Abuse

Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic developed in the 1960s, is used medically for anesthesia and, more recently, for treatment-resistant depression. However, its hallucinogenic and euphoric effects have led to misuse and dependence. alcoholism symptoms Addiction is characterized by tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite awareness of physical, psychological, or social problems caused by the drug.

Ketamine Withdrawal and Dependence

High doses may cause unconsciousness, respiratory failure, or death — especially when mixed with alcohol or other drugs. A ketamine overdose can happen quickly when taking ketamine with other substances, making awareness of the effects of ketamine critical for reducing harm. “Sarah,” a 22-year-old college student, began using ketamine at parties.

What Are The Treatment Strategies Of Ketamine Addiction In Nevada?

In severe cases, ketamine abuse leads to significant physical symptoms, including bladder dysfunction and urinary tract damage. Gold (2024) reports that about 1% or less of the U.S. population abuse ketamine, but the number of first-time hallucinogen users, including those using ketamine, reached 1.1 million in 2020. Ketamine, often used for chronic pain and treatment-resistant depression, poses risks, leading to mental health problems. Chronic ketamine abuse can result in a state known as the “k-hole.” The popular recreational drug is misused in social settings, causing cravings and substance abuse. It’s crucial to be aware of the side effects of ketamine and seek help for those facing its misuse. Ketamine addiction is a chronic substance use disorder marked by compulsive ketamine use despite harmful consequences.

How substance use disorder often begins

• These changes reinforce ketamine-seeking behavior, making recovery difficult without professional treatment.
• Ketamine addiction also makes it difficult for people to function as they normally do in their daily life and activities.
• Long-term effects encompass cognitive impairments, emotional instability, persistent depressive symptoms, and a nascent probability of getting other substance use disorders.

Recognizing these root causes is necessary for effective treatment, whether through therapy, medical support, or lifestyle changes. I asked Dr. Cottler why she is studying KUD now, and she says researchers have been ascertaining issues involved with ketamine and what determines potential addiction. Cottler’s research aims to ensure diagnostic frameworks are reliable across various substances, including ketamine, and are applicable in diverse cultural contexts. In the United States, ketamine is most commonly used by teens and young adults of higher socioeconomic status, often polydrug-using adults. Ketamine is frequently used recreationally at clubs, music festivals, and raves.

What are Ketamine Withdrawal Symptoms?

Addictive behavior often presents the same regardless of the substance being abused. As an award-winning luxury rehab, Legacy Healing Center’s mission is to lay the foundation for anyone who enters our community to achieve a better life than they had ever dreamed possible. Select your insurance below and we willl reach out to you with qualifying information. Since 2013, our expert team has built comprehensive resources you can trust to find the right treatment for you. This center accepts insurance, exact cost can vary depending on your plan and deductible.