Ketamine is an extremely potent drug, one generally used for its anesthetic properties during surgical procedures. Because this substance is so potent and has such a high potential for abuse, it will never be prescribed to be taken in an at-home setting – it will only be administered in a hospital setting. For those that abuse ketamine, it’s almost always bought from dealers and the ketamine is often produced in underground labs. The drug works by inducing a comprehensively sedated state while facilitating pain relief and leading to memory loss. Ketamine might also be used to treat depression in very extreme cases, but only when all other treatment methods have failed. Individuals who use ketamine regularly and other than as prescribed by a medical professional will most likely develop a severe substance abuse issue within a shockingly short time. 
What Are Ketamine Withdrawal Symptoms?
Tolerance increases (meaning that more of the drug will be required for the same effects to be produced), the individual will begin taking larger doses more frequently. This is how ketamine addiction rapidly develops. As soon as an individual who has developed a ketamine addiction ceases use entirely, he or she will begin experiencing symptoms associated with ketamine withdrawal. The symptoms result from altered opioid receptors, which are changed over time with repeated ketamine use. Once these opioid receptors are altered, the brain can no longer regulate basic functions – this will ultimately lead to withdrawal symptoms that are almost always physically and psychologically devastating, and can be life-threatening if left untreated. When it comes to the symptoms of ketamine withdrawal, the more severe symptoms will generally be psychological.
Ketamine Detox is Uncomfortable
There are some physical symptoms of ketamine withdrawal, but they can often be effectively treated in a medical detox facility with few complications. Physical symptoms resemble the symptoms of the bad flu and include stomach cramping, nausea and vomiting, muscle aches and pain, night sweats, body tremors, persistent headaches, and general feelings of discomfort. The most common psychological symptoms of ketamine withdrawal include:
- Agitation and irritability
- Severe and uncontrollable mood swings
- Loss of basic motor skills
- Insomnia and other sleep-related issues like persistent nightmares
- Feelings of uncontrollable anger and rage can lead to violent outbursts
- Cognitive impairment
- Severe confusion
- Hallucinations and delusions, which can lead to psychosis if left untreated
The length of time that ketamine withdrawal lasts will depend heavily on the person who was abusing the drug as well as the length and severity of abuse. In most cases, the symptoms of ketamine withdrawal will begin to take place within the first several hours after the last use, and they will last for between 72 hours and several weeks. Acute withdrawal symptoms will begin within the first one to three days, and the more severe symptoms of withdrawal will typically begin within the first four days of the last use and persist for up to two full weeks. Post-acute withdrawal symptoms will take place after that, and could persist for up to six months.
Evoke Wellness Miramar and Ketamine Addiction Treatment
At Evoke Wellness Miramar, we offer one of the most comprehensive and quality programs of clinical care available throughout the entire state. Our team of compassionate professionals is extremely dedicated to providing individualized and effective addiction treatment to all those who need it. When it comes to our integrated program of addiction recovery, we believe that no stone should be left unturned. Addiction is a far-reaching and complicated disease, one that affects the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of everyone involved. We believe that comprehensive clinical care should be accessible, and we have developed a unique and personalized treatment program for residents of South Florida and all surrounding areas who have been suffering at the hands of substance abuse or dependence. To learn more about our program of addiction treatment, give us a call today. We understand that ketamine addiction might seem impossible to overcome – however, we know that with the right combination of clinical services, even the most severe ketamine addiction can be effectively conquered. If you are ready to begin a new way of life, all you have to do is pick up the phone and give us a call.
