Ketamine is a habit-forming drug that is highly dangerous when taken in large enough doses to cause hallucinations and its other dissociative properties. Still, you should not be too concerned about becoming addicted to the drug if you are being treated with it, as long as you are taking the medication exactly as prescribed.

If you abuse your ketamine prescription, call 800-915-1270 (Who Answers?) now for a treatment referral. 

Ketamine Treatment Today

Express your concerns with your doctor if you’re afraid you’ll become addicted to ketamine.

According to the Center for Substance Abuse Research, while the drug is mostly used as a veterinary medication, “there are still valid medicinal uses of ketamine for anesthetic reasons, though use is uncommon and tightly restricted.” However, ketamine has been found to be a possible treatment for depression in certain individuals, as stated by the American Journal of Psychiatry, as well as certain chronic pain syndromes, bipolar disorder, and even migraines.

If the drug is given to you as an anesthetic, you have no reason to become concerned about addiction, as you will not be taking it on multiple occasions. If you are being treated for one of the above issues with ketamine, though, there is a higher possibility of addiction. Still, it will only occur if you begin to abuse your medication.

The Safe Way to Take Ketamine

If you have been prescribed ketamine, there must be a specific reason why your doctor believed it would particularly benefit you and your situation. According to the National Institute on Mental Health, “Most of the studies to date have tested ketamine in people for whom other treatments were not effective, including both medications and psychotherapy.” If this is the case for you, it is important that you discuss your medication in depth with your physician, ask any questions you have, and find out as much about it as possible so you can take it safely.

Once you have begun your treatment, it is necessary to never deviate from your prescription amount. This includes the acts of taking more of the medication than prescribed in one dose, taking it more often, or taking it in a different method of use. If you do so, this could possibly lead to addiction. You should also avoid taking it to feel certain effects such as a strong high, euphoria, or its dissociative effects.

Normally, ketamine is not given as a long-term treatment, but if you are taking the drug routinely, remember to be careful and to always be very meticulous with your medication.

What is the Ketamine Addiction Potential of an Everyday User?

Will I Get Addicted to My Ketamine Treatment?

Unless you abuse the drug, you will not become addicted to it. If you are beginning to feel tempted to do so, discuss the issue with your doctor and you can find a solution together, one that might cause you to move to a different medication. This situation is rare, though, and requires careful use and understanding of the consequences of ketamine abuse to avoid any issues.

If you have more questions about the drug itself or you think you may be struggling with ketamine addiction, call 800-915-1270 (Who Answers?).