Ketamine was originally produced as an anesthetic and was widely used during the 1970s in human surgical procedures. It wasn’t until the 1980’s that ketamine would actually be abused mostly by various dance cultures and those looking to “explore the mind.” Unfortunately, ketamine abuse has since become a very common denominator in the club scene and according to the Center for Substance Abuse Research, “use is higher today than it was when first introduced.”

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of ketamine abuse can help you to determine whether someone you love or care for may be suffering from a potential problem. Early detection of substance abuse is key to finding the right help and treatment before serious consequences set in. While some of the signs of ketamine abuse may be easily spotted, others not so much. Below is a look at some of the most common signs and symptoms of ketamine abuse that you should be aware of:

People who abuse ketamine may experience delirium and flashbacks.

1. Overspending – overspending can often be seen by an outsider when a loved one suddenly needs to borrow money more often or has financial struggles without any explanation as to why he or she is struggling.
2. Lack of Responsibility – ketamine abuse will often cause the user to fall back on his or her responsibilities at work, home or school. Assignments are turned in late or poor quality work is provided; sick days increase; household chores are neglected.
3. Amnesia – inability to remember things, even things that just happened; amnesia is one of the more common signs and symptoms of ketamine abuse and it often occurs both while the user is taking the drug and after the fact as the memory deteriorates as a result of the drug use.
4. Delirium – people who abuse ketamine will often hallucinate or be disoriented thinking that they are somewhere else.
5. Derealization – Ketamine abuse can cause a complete lack of touch with reality, the user may act as if he or she is in another world.
6. Flashbacks – distinct flashes of memory that occur out of nowhere.
7. Changes in Friendships – often times, ketamine abuse will cause the user to change the groups that they spend time with. The user will no longer spend time with people that do not use drugs and will shift their focus to people who also abuse drugs the way that they do.
8. Inability to have Fun without Ketamine – a distinct sadness or hostility when drug use is not part of the equation.
9. Changes in Personal Appearance – a lack of desire to care for one’s self. This may include not bathing or showering, not grooming one’s hair, not brushing the teeth or otherwise just being unkempt.
10. Tolerance – the need to take more ketamine than was once needed in an effort to feel the same effects.

If you believe you or someone you love is addicted to ketamine, call 800-915-1270 (Who Answers?) today to find an addiction treatment center near you. 

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