Sharp Uptick in Ketamine Misuse Among U.S. Adults

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Recent data from NSDUH and a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders show a dramatic rise in ketamine use by US adults. Although opioid and fentanyl abuse dominate the headlines, ketamine use is on the rise and taking lives at an alarming rate.

If you aren’t familiar with the ketamine abuse problem in our nation, here are some things you need to know. Young adults, parents, and college students should learn all they can about this dangerous drug trend. The knowledge could help protect themselves or a loved one from potential harm.

What Is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a Schedule III Controlled Substance, meaning it carries a risk for physical or psychological dependence. It is an anesthetic that can cause dissociative and hallucinogenic effects. Intentional abuse of ketamine is illegal and can lead to death if mixed with other substances. The drug is popular for recreational use because it produces effects similar to those of PCP.

Ketamine is primarily used in human and veterinary medicine to anesthetize patients for surgery or to manage pain. The drug may also treat PTSD, depression, anxiety, and SUDs. Sexual predators use it to sedate their intended victim.

Common street names for ketamine include, but are not limited to::

Special K
Kit Kat
Cat Valium
Super K
Vitamin K

As a popular “club drug” ketamine is available in liquid or powder form to be smoked or injected. It may be packaged in small vials, plastic bags, capsules, or aluminum foil folds.

Most of the ketamine in the US is diverted or stolen from veterinarians or smuggled in from Mexico.

How Does It Affect the Mind and Body?

Ketamine is popular because its effects are short in duration, compared to PCP or LSD. The onset of the impact of ketamine trip is rapid and lasts about 30 to 60 minutes. Slang terms for the experience include K-land, K-hole, Baby Food, and God.

Ketamine affects the body and mind in several ways. The most significant effect on the mind is that it makes a person unresponsive to stimuli, making them feel disconnected and not in control. Effects on the body may include rapid eye movement, dilated pupils, stiff muscles, and increased heart rate.

Statistics Reveal Shocking Increases

Recent statistics reveal the surprising prevalence of ketamine misuse:

From 2015 to 2019 past year ketamine use increased by 81.8%.
From 2019 to 2022 past year ketamine use increased by 40%.
Individuals with depression are 80% more likely to use ketamine.
Young adults aged 26–34 are 66% more likely to have used ketamine in the past year.
People with college degrees are twice as likely to use the drug.
Ketamine use is more likely among people who use ecstasy, GHB, or cocaine.

These findings suggest an urgent need for improved prevention strategies and monitoring to help save lives.

Side Effects and Signs of Overdose

Like all drugs of abuse, ketamine causes a range of mental and physical side effects and risks. The most common side effects include:

Short-term effects: dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure.
Long-term effects: Memory problems, bladder damage, cognitive impairment, psychological dependence.
Signs of overdose: Unconsciousness, respiratory depression, death.

When used in combination with other substances, the risk of adverse effects increases significantly.

Can You Overcome Ketamine Abuse?

Yes, you can. With the right professional help, ketamine abuse and addiction can be overcome. Of course, recovery is easier the sooner you seek help. So, if you struggle with club drug abuse or other drug abuse problems, reach out to us today. We have a team of highly skilled and compassionate professionals who understand the difficulties involved in quitting drugs and they know what you need through each step of recovery.

Design for Change provides a comfortable, secure environment where you undergo a customized program designed specifically for your situation. Our full continuum of care includes a range of therapies and activities like:

The amount of time you remain in the program is based on the severity of your addiction, the substance involved, and the existence of co-occurring disorders. You may require 30, 60, or 90 days of treatment in an outpatient, inpatient, or partial hospitalization program. We will adjust your plan as you move through the program to ensure you are getting the quality care you deserve.

Contact our Lancaster, CA facility to speak with a treatment advisor. We will conduct a confidential assessment, verify your insurance, and recommend a plan that fits your unique needs.

Sources:

dea.gov – Ketamine

sciencedirect.com – Trends and Characteristics in Ketamine Use Among US Adults With or Without Depression