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Ketamine Addiction Treatment, Rehab and Detox: Key Steps to a Successful Recovery

Recent statistics show a significant rise in ketamine use among young people in the United Kingdom. Hospital admissions in Bristol alone have increased from 31 in 2018 to 144 in 2023.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with ketamine dependence, fret not. Help is available. Let’s explore the withdrawal symptoms, available professional support and treatment programmes that can help you regain control of your life.

Why Do People Get Addicted to Ketamine?

Ketamine, originally developed as an anaesthetic in the 1960s, is now widely known for both its medical uses and its recreational abuse. Ketamine is medically used in surgeries and emergency pain management.

However, patients claimed to have experienced dissociative effects while taking the drug. Sensations of euphoria, hallucinations and detachment from reality are common after Ketamine intake. Thus, it gained its street cred as a party drug.

People get hooked on ketamine because of its fast-acting ability to induce feelings of relaxation and escape from psychological distress. Those who struggle with mental health disorders use ketamine to self-medicate. However, this short-lived relief comes at a high cost.

Prolonged use has severe physical and psychological side effects. This includes memory loss and depression. It also causes ‘ketamine bladder syndrome—a condition that causes painful urination and bladder damage.

Addictive behaviours due to ketamine abuse can have a great impact on the brain’s neurotransmitters. The intense cravings it creates push the patient to seek higher doses to achieve the same effects. Without professional help, overcoming ketamine addiction can become challenging.

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What are the Symptoms of Ketamine Addiction?

ketamine addiction symptoms of an addicated person

Recognising the signs of ketamine addiction is crucial for early intervention. Understanding these withdrawal symptoms can help you take the first step towards seeking professional support.

Does Cannabis Show up on Drug Tests?

It should also be noted that cannabis can be picked up on drug tests, whether it be a urine test, a hair test, or a saliva test. Urine tests usually detect cannabis between 3 and 30 days after cannabis use, whereas saliva tests will only usually show cannabis for roughly 24 hours after using. Hair tests can also detect cannabis – usually for 90 days after cannabis use. However, hair tests aren’t always completely accurate.

Psychological Symptoms

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Confusion
  • Paranoia
  • Memory loss
  • Hallucinations
  • Irritability
  • Intense cravings
  • Disorientation

Physical Symptoms

  • Slurred speech
  • Loss of coordination
  • Redness of the skin
  • Rapid eye movements
  • Increased heart rate
  • Difficulty moving
  • Urinary problems (e.g., pain, blood in urine)
  • Muscle weakness
  • Bladder damage

Ketamine Detox Process: What to Expect?

Detoxing from ketamine is the initial step in helping someone overcome ketamine abuse and dependence. When a person stops abusing ketamine, they will need time to adapt and eliminate the drug’s effects. Ketamine withdrawal symptoms set in. Typically, symptoms start within 24 to 72 hours after the last dose. It can last several weeks depending on how long they’ve been dependent and how much drug use the do.

  • Acute Stage (Days 1-5): This is considered the toughest stage. Symptoms are at their peak at this point. Patients can expect anxiety, confusion and intense cravings.
  • Subacute Stage (Weeks 1-3): Your symptoms should begin to ease. However, emotional difficulties like mood swings and depression can linger.
  • Prolonged Withdrawal (Weeks 4+): Psychological struggles such as cravings and emotional instability can persist. But they are generally less severe.

Common Withdrawal Symptoms

  • Anxiety and irritability
  • Intense cravings for ketamine
  • Depression and mood swings
  • Confusion and memory problems
  • Restlessness and difficulty sleeping
  • Sweating, tremors, and fatigue
  • Headaches and muscle aches
  • Urinary issues, including pain and discomfort when urinating

Medical Supervision During Detox

Medical supervision is important during detox ketamine treatment. This is especially if the ketamine use addiction has been severe. The individual’s physical condition should be monitored closely—keeping a close eye on heart rate, blood pressure and breathing—throughout the detox process. This ensures that any complications are managed safely.

 

Medications Used to Manage Ketamine Withdrawal Symptoms

There aren’t specific medications for ketamine withdrawal. However, some are prescribed to help manage the symptoms. These may reduce the discomfort and risks during detox:

  • Antidepressants: To manage anxiety and depression.
  • Benzodiazepines: Sometimes used for short periods to treat severe anxiety and insomnia.
  • Antipsychotics: For those experiencing hallucinations or severe paranoia.
  • Pain relief and muscle relaxants: To address the physical discomfort of withdrawal.
  • Medications for bladder health: If ketamine use has led to bladder or urinary issues, specific medications may be prescribed.

Ketamine Rehab Treatment

Ketamine rehab provides a structured environment where patients can detox safely, engage in therapy, and learn how to manage triggers. Rehab centre specialised programmes address the underlying causes of addiction. Experts provide a comprehensive approach such as individual and rehab group therapy along with holistic activities to support long-term recovery.

There are two main types of rehab treatment available: inpatient and outpatient.

Inpatient Ketamine Rehab

Inpatient rehab provides an environment where individuals can fully focus on their successful recovery without distractions from the outside world. One of the most significant benefits of inpatient treatment is the ability to step away from everyday stressors and triggers. Patients also have access to 24/7 medical support.

Inpatient ketamine rehab provides comprehensive care. Not only does it address the physical aspects of addiction but also tackles the underlying psychological causes. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) are incorporated in the programme to help patients uncover triggers and issues that contribute to their substance abuse.
The ketamine treatment programme typically lasts 28 days. Longer stays are available depending on the severity of the addiction and individual needs.

Outpatient Ketamine Rehab

Outpatient rehab treatment plan offers a flexible alternative for individuals who don’t require the intensity of an inpatient programme or who have personal or professional commitments that prevent them from living at a rehab facility. This is particularly suited for those with milder addictions or those who have a strong support network at home.

The main advantage of outpatient treatment is that individuals are allowed to continue with their daily routines. They can go to work, attend family responsibilities or manage other obligations. All of these while still receiving structured treatment.

For those needing more structure but unable to commit to full-time care, Intensive Outpatient Programmes (IOP) are a good option. IOP only requires several hours of therapy a few days each week, and the therapies may include one-on-one therapy, group counselling, or holistic approaches.

On the other hand, Partial Hospitalisation Programmes (PHP) are more intensive. PHP provides daily treatment sessions similar to inpatient rehab, but without the residential aspect. It is often used as a step-down from inpatient care or for those with more severe addiction who are able to stay at home.

Outpatient treatment offers flexibility but poses challenges as individuals are exposed to familiar triggers. Self-discipline and a strong support system are crucial for success. Patients must actively manage their exposure to risk factors. Despite the challenges, the balance of structure and independence in outpatient rehab helps integrate treatment into real life, facilitating long-term recovery.

maintaining healthy habits as part of recovery process

Aftercare and Relapse Prevention

After completing a rehab programme, the journey to recovery is far from over. Structured treatment transitioning to everyday life can be tough. Aftercare and relapse prevention are crucial for long-term recovery.

Ongoing support is key to helping individuals stay on track. Support groups, like 12-step programs, offer a community for individuals dealing with addiction. Regular meetings provide emotional support. It also helps reinforce lessons learned in rehab.

A relapse prevention plan is another essential tool in maintaining sobriety. This personalised plan identifies triggers, coping strategies, and warning signs of relapse. It includes actionable steps for managing cravings and high-risk situations. It helps boost the patient’s confidence in managing challenges and reducing the risk of relapse.

Choosing the Right Ketamine Addiction Treatment Options

If you or a loved one is struggling with ketamine addiction, you don’t have to face this challenge alone. Seeking help is the first step toward reclaiming your life. We are here to guide you through the process of ketamine addiction treatment. Whether you’re looking for detox options, rehab programmes, or support for managing withdrawal symptoms, we can help you access the care you need to get free from ketamine.

Take control of your future now—we are here to support you in reclaiming your life. Contact us today!

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