How to protect yourself: Understanding the dangers of mixing ketamine and alcohol

What is ketamine and how does it affect the body?

Ketamine is a versatile medication that has both medical and veterinary uses. In the context of veterinary medicine, ketamine is primarily employed as an anaesthetic and analgesic, especially in procedures that require sedation and pain management for animals.

Its use in human medicine is also significant and has been employed as an anaesthetic and analgesic in emergency medicine and pain management. Recent research has also been applied to how the drug helps with mental health issues such as depression.

Ketamine works by blocking N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain, leading to a dissociative state where people may feel detached from their surroundings and experience hallucinations. Due to its mind-altering effects, it is used recreationally, often in social settings or parties.

Why do people mix ketamine and alcohol?

There’s never just one sole reason why people take drugs, and this is the same for mixing them, too. Here are some of the most likely reasons that people mix alcohol and ketamine:

Lack of judgement and impulsivity

When you use ketamine and alcohol together, it can significantly affect your thought process and cause you to make rash decisions, perhaps something you wouldn’t normally do. Your ability to make good decisions goes down, and you might not realise how risky your actions are.

People tend to act more recklessly because both alcohol and ketamine affect a part of the brain that usually helps control impulsive behaviour. This can lead to doing things you normally avoid, like taking unnecessary risks or entering dangerous situations.

Escape from reality

The combination of ketamine and alcohol is often used as a means of escape from reality. Ketamine can create a sense of detachment from the surroundings, while alcohol’s sedative effects contribute to numbing emotional pain.

Unfortunately, relying on this combination as a coping mechanism can exacerbate underlying mental health issues. Instead of addressing and resolving emotional challenges, individuals may find themselves trapped in a cycle of substance use that could result in addiction.

Misinformation

A lack of accurate information about the risks associated with combining ketamine and alcohol can contribute to the misconception that this combination is safe or enjoyable. Individuals may be unaware of potential adverse effects on the central nervous, respiratory, and mental health. This false sense of security can come from friends, online forums, or unreliable sources.

Intensifying party atmosphere

Some people may think that combining ketamine and alcohol enhances the party atmosphere or social experience. This misguided belief can lead to a whole range of issues, including accidents and the risk of overdose.

The dangers of mixing ketamine and alcohol

Here, we take a comprehensive look at the massive amount of different issues that ketamine can bring to a user. We’ve divided this into sections to emphasise that mixing the two is never good in the short or long term.

Long-term dangers of using ketamine and alcohol

Short-term dangers of using ketamine and alcohol

The potential for ‘Date Rape’

The term’ ket hole’ refers to a state of profound dissociation induced by a high dose of ketamine. People in this state may find themselves incapacitated, rendering them vulnerable to situations as grave as sexual assault. The possibility of memory loss further exacerbates the gravity of the situation after the effects have worn off, making it incredibly challenging for victims to recollect the events they may have endured..

Research has shown that amongst substances like GHB and Rhoypnol, Ketamine is also a common substance used in date rape situations.

Signs of ketamine and alcohol overdose

If you’ve taken ketamine and alcohol together and noticed the following signs in yourself or others, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

• Chest pain or tightness
• Trouble breathing
• Fast heartbeat
• Palpitations
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Sweating
• Confusion
• Drowsiness

These symptoms may indicate a serious medical condition and require immediate evaluation by a healthcare professional. Delaying medical care in such situations can be dangerous. If you or someone else is experiencing these signs, call emergency services or visit the nearest emergency room for assistance.

I’ve taken alcohol and ketamine- what should I do?

If someone you know mixes ketamine with alcohol, remain calm and ensure safety first. Reassure them and stay hydrated with gentle sips of water, avoiding overconsumption due to ketamine’s dehydrating effects. Avoid adding more substances, as this can heighten risks. Wait for the effects to diminish naturally. If there’s any concern or deterioration in the condition, seek immediate medical assistance.

How do I know if I have an issue with mixing ketamine and alcohol?

If you’ve been noticing an increase in your usage of ketamine and alcohol recently, it may be time for a self-evaluation. Below are seven questions that you could ask yourself to determine if your behaviours are concerning;

1. Have you found that you need to consume more alcohol or ketamine to achieve the same effects as before?
2. Do you find it difficult to control or limit your alcohol or ketamine intake, even when you intend to do so?
3. Have you experienced cravings or strong urges to use alcohol or ketamine?
4. Is the use of alcohol or ketamine interfering with your daily responsibilities, such as work, school, or relationships?
5. Have you continued to use alcohol or ketamine despite being aware of the negative physical or psychological consequences?
6. Have you noticed a significant amount of time being spent obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of alcohol or ketamine?
7. Have you suffered from withdrawal symptoms when attempting to detox from one or both of the substances?

If you’ve answered ‘yes’ to one or more of these questions, it could indicate that you have an issue with alcohol, ketamine or even both. It’s crucial to consider the option of alcohol rehab or ketamine rehab to address the issues.

How can UKAT help with ketamine and alcohol addiction?

If you’re seeking a path to recovery from alcohol or ketamine addiction, remember that UKAT is here for you. Our compassionate team provides expert guidance and support on your journey to sobriety.

With rehab treatment plans, detox for both alcohol and ketamine, rehab and a commitment to your well-being, UKAT offers a lifeline for those ready to break free from addiction.

Reach out to us today, and let us guide you on the path to recovery.