KETAMINE
- Ketamine is a powerful medication primarily used for inducing and maintaining anesthesia. It was developed in the 1960s and is commonly utilized in medical settings for anesthesia during surgeries or procedures. It's classified as a dissociative anesthetic, which means it can induce a state of sedation, pain relief, and immobility while keeping the patient conscious.
- Aside from its anesthetic properties, ketamine has gained attention for its off-label uses. At sub-anesthetic doses, it has been explored for its potential in treating depression, particularly treatment-resistant depression. Some studies have shown rapid antidepressant effects in individuals who haven't responded to other traditional antidepressant medications.
- However, due to its hallucinogenic and dissociative properties, ketamine is also a controlled substance and has the potential for abuse. It's categorized as a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States, meaning it has a recognized medical use but also a potential for moderate to low physical dependence or high psychological dependence.
- Ketamine's use in clinical settings is highly regulated, and its off-label use for depression treatment typically involves specialised clinics or medical practitioners due to its potential for misuse and the need for careful administration and monitoring
Ketamine can be consumed in various ways depending on its intended use:
Medical Settings: In medical settings, ketamine is typically administered intravenously (IV) for anesthesia or as an infusion for depression treatment. It can also be given intramuscularly (IM) in certain situations.
Off-label Use for Depression: When used off-label for depression treatment, ketamine is often administered as a nasal spray or through intravenous infusion in specialized clinics or under the supervision of healthcare professionals.
Recreational Use: Illicitly, ketamine can be consumed in several ways:
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- Snorting: It's commonly snorted in powdered form. The powder is usually heated to form a liquid, which is then dried to create a powder for snorting.
- Injection: Some individuals inject liquid ketamine intramuscularly or intravenously, which is a highly risky method with potential serious health consequences.
- Oral Consumption: Ketamine can be ingested orally, but this method is less common due to the unpredictable effects and slower onset compared to other routes of administration.
Regardless of the method, it's important to note that ketamine is a controlled substance and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional for legitimate medical purposes. Misuse or recreational use of ketamine can have severe health risks and legal implications
Ketamine can produce a range of effects depending on the dosage and the individual's response. Here are some of its effects:
Anesthetic: At higher doses, ketamine induces anesthesia, leading to a state of sedation, pain relief, and immobility. It's used in medical settings for surgeries or procedures requiring anesthesia.
Hallucinations and Dissociation: At lower doses or when used recreationally, ketamine can induce hallucinations, alter perceptions, and cause a sense of detachment from reality. This dissociative effect is why it's classified as a dissociative anesthetic.
Euphoria and Relaxation: Some users report feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and a sense of detachment from the environment. These effects contribute to its potential for misuse or recreational use.
Cognitive and Psychological Effects: Ketamine can impair cognitive function, leading to confusion, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems. In some cases, it may cause agitation, anxiety, or panic attacks.
Physical Effects: Ketamine can also have physical effects such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and motor impairment. At high doses or with prolonged use, it can cause respiratory depression, muscle rigidity, and even lead to a state known as "k-hole," characterized by profound dissociation and hallucinations.
Potential for Dependence and Addiction: Long-term or frequent misuse of ketamine can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction, where individuals may develop a psychological craving for the drug
5. Is it safe to consume ketamine?
Ketamine, when used under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional in a controlled medical setting, can be safe and effective for its intended purposes such as anesthesia or in certain treatments for depression or chronic pain. However, its recreational or off-label use carries significant risks and safety concerns.
Health Risks: Misuse or unsupervised use of ketamine can lead to a range of health risks. High doses can cause serious complications such as respiratory depression, cardiovascular issues, or even a loss of consciousness. It can also lead to accidents or injuries due to impaired coordination and judgment.
Psychological Effects: Ketamine can induce hallucinations, dissociation, confusion, and anxiety. Prolonged or heavy use can result in psychological dependence, impacting mental health and overall well-being.
Addiction Potential: There's a risk of developing tolerance, dependence, and addiction with prolonged misuse. This can lead to cravings and compulsive use, contributing to a cycle of addiction.
Legal Implications: Ketamine is a controlled substance, and its misuse or unauthorized possession can have legal consequences.
Due to its potential for misuse and associated health risks, consuming ketamine without proper medical supervision is not safe. Seeking treatment or assistance from healthcare professionals is crucial for anyone struggling with substance misuse or addiction related to ketamine or any other substance
6. Way forward
In recent years, ketamine has been a subject of widespread debate due to its growing use for treating depression and other serious mental health issues. While some experts and patients call it lifesaving, others say it’s addictive and causes bladder ailments. Here is a look at what ketamine is, and whether it is safe to consume
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Source: Indianexpress
