Ketamine Withdrawal: What You Need to Know About Symptoms and Support

Ketamine is a dissociative drug developed for use in surgeries. However, it is also a popular recreational drug and can be abused. Here is what you need to know about ketamine withdrawal symptoms.

What Is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a drug used largely to initiate and sustain anesthesia. It induces a trance-like state while also numbing pain. This makes it a common drug for surgeries, especially for brief operations. Because ketamine is not an opioid, it is especially useful when there are concerns about a patient’s respiration and circulation.

The medicine is often in the form of a white, crystalline powder. This is the most prevalent type used as a street drug. It can also be administered as a liquid, tablet, or nasal spray.

Ketamine has a variety of applications, notably as an anesthetic in surgery and, more recently, in lower dosages as a therapy for severe depression.

However, it’s also a popular street drug. It’s especially popular in the rave and club scenes among young adults.

When misused or taken recreationally, ketamine can lead to a range of risks, including psychological dependence. Some individuals who use ketamine frequently and in high doses may experience ketamine withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop using it. These withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, depression, irritability, fatigue, and cravings. Unlike substances with severe physical withdrawal effects, ketamine withdrawal is usually more psychological, although it can still be distressing and challenging to manage.

Is Ketamine Addictive?

Yes, ketamine can be addictive, particularly when used frequently and in high doses outside of a medical context. While not typically physically addictive, ketamine ketamine can lead to psychological dependence due to its euphoric and dissociative effects.

For those who become dependent on ketamine, stopping use can lead to ketamine withdrawal symptoms, which are generally psychological rather than physical. These can include mood swings, anxiety, depression, and cravings, which can make it difficult for individuals to quit.

What Is Ketamine Withdrawal?

Ketamine withdrawal includes things like anxiety and depression, as well as some mild physical symptoms like sweating and fatigue.

In most cases, these symptoms lessen over time, usually within one to two weeks. However, emotional and psychological ketamine withdrawal symptoms may take longer to resolve, especially in cases where ketamine has been used to self-medicate underlying mental health conditions.

Physical Symptoms of Ketamine Withdrawal

Physical symptoms of ketamine withdrawal are usually limited and may include:

• Fatigue and low energy: People may feel unusually tired, with a lack of physical stamina.
• Sweating: Increased sweating, especially in the first few days of withdrawal.
• Tremors or muscle stiffness: Rare but can occur, usually in cases of heavy, prolonged use.
• Loss of appetite: A reduction in appetite or even mild nausea, which may improve after the first few days.

Physical symptoms of ketamine withdrawal exist but are usually quite mild and do not last long.

Psychological Symptoms of Ketamine Withdrawal

The psychological symptoms are often the most challenging aspect of ketamine withdrawal. These may include:

• Cravings: A strong desire to use ketamine again to alleviate withdrawal discomfort or recapture the euphoric effects.
• Anxiety: Increased feelings of worry or nervousness, often accompanied by restlessness.
• Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or apathy, which can last for days or weeks, especially in cases of long-term use.
• Irritability: Heightened sensitivity and frustration, which can make it difficult to cope with minor stressors.
• Difficulty concentrating: A sense of mental fog or inability to focus, which can impact daily tasks and responsibilities.
• Vivid or unpleasant dreams: Some people experience vivid dreams or nightmares as they adjust to life without ketamine.