Ketamine is a type of anesthetic often used by veterinarians. It can also be used in humans as both an anesthetic and a treatment for depression. However, most people – including women – don’t use ketamine for legitimate purposes. Instead, they turn to it as a recreational drug. This abuse can have serious consequences. Increasingly, women’s prescription drug addiction treatment programs are needed to combat the effects of ketamine-related problems.
If you’re trapped in a cycle of ketamine abuse or ketamine addiction, Women’s Recovery can help. We feature a broad range of programs for women with substance problems. That includes problems stemming from ketamine use. We’re dedicated to helping you overcome your substance issues and return to stable sobriety. Call today at 833.754.0554 or contact us online.
Common Ketamine Effects
Ketamine belongs to a group of substances called dissociative drugs. Drugs of this type create a sense of detachment from your surroundings. You may also feel detached from your own body. Other drugs that can trigger these effects include nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, and phencyclidine. You may know this substance better as PCP or Angel Dust.
There is a broad range of common ketamine effects in addition to dissociation. These effects may include such things as:
- Feelings of agitation
- Hallucinations
- Problems thinking clearly
- Confusion
- Stiff muscles
- Numbness
- Changes in your normal behavior
- Amnesia
Both men and women can experience these issues. However, women appear to be especially susceptible to thinking difficulties and confusion.
Effects of Ketamine Abuse
Ketamine only has two medically legitimate uses. Its most widespread use is as an anesthetic. The FDA has also approved ketamine spray as a treatment for depression. All other uses of the drug qualify as ketamine abuse.
Abuse of the drug can expose you to a variety of harmful effects. For women and men, ketamine effects in this category include:
- The profoundly altered mental state called psychosis
- Breathing difficulties
- Seizures
- Gaps in your memory
Over time, you may also develop severe problems with your kidneys or bladder. Women, in particular, have increased risks for a bladder condition called ketamine cystitis. Left untreated, this condition can lead to significant, lasting damage.
Ketamine Addiction
Ketamine is known for its ability to produce the classic symptoms of drug addiction. These symptoms include physical dependence and increasing tolerance to ketamine’s effects. They also include the appearance of withdrawal if you stop using the drug.
Many people develop ketamine addiction as the result of binging on the drug again and again. Binges involve sustained periods of heavy drug use. The goal of this behavior is to recreate the desired effects of a ketamine high. However, those effects become harder to achieve as tolerance rises. At the same time, you increase the odds that addiction will occur.
Treatment for Ketamine Abuse and Ketamine Addiction
There is no set treatment for ketamine abuse or addiction. Instead, specialists must rely on methods used to treat other substance problems. This may include the use of medication. However, you are more likely to receive help in the form of psychotherapy.
Therapy aims to help you understand why you started abusing ketamine. It also helps you recognize the harmful effects of the drug on your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. In addition, therapy can help you develop healthier responses and behaviors that support sobriety.
Seek Women’s Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment at Women’s Recovery
Are you struggling with ketamine problems or any other form of addiction? Contact the experts at Women’s Recovery. We feature customized, evidence-based care for women with all manner of substance problems. This care relies on a holistic model that treats you as a whole person, not a statistic. For more information on our available services, call us today at 833.754.0554. You can also reach us through our online form.
