Is ketamine poisonous? Debunking 6 myths around the drug that claimed Matthew Perry’s life
Friends’ star Matthew Perry dying from ketamine overdose, has led to a plethora of misconceptions about the drug.
The drug, which is primarily used as a pain-relieving anaesthetic during surgeries, was also utilised by doctors to treat PTSD and severe depression.
Despite being moderately addictive, ketamine is not as overpowering as heroin and cocaine. However, doctors have, in no uncertain terms forbidden self-administered use.
It’s Nothing Novel
While Perry’s death may have made many curious about ketamine, according to medical experts, the drug has been used as an antidepressant for decades according to Patrick Sullivan, medical director of Initia Nova Medical Solutions in New Jersey.
The antidepressants drug has been used as an anaesthetic since 1970, said the doctor. It was also introduced as a drug to combat post-traumatic stress disorder in 2013.
Not As Addicting As You Think
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. Bankole Johnson, CEO and founder of Casa Privée in Miami said that the drug was a “moderately addictive substance.”
“Even long-term users typically only develop a behavioral or psychological dependence. Physical dependence can occur, but usually the withdrawal signs are mild to moderate,” he told the news portal. He also said that the risk for addiction, and craving, if the doses are stopped is also very low.
Not As Accessible As You Think!
No, ketamine cannot be purchased online or like any other regular over-the-counter medication at will. Johnson cautioned that the drug cannot be sold without being prescribed by a doctor. Before taking a dose, doctors will try to investigate whether the patient has PTSD or depression.
The dangers of attempting to buy ketamine without a doctor’s approval
