Ketamine Use and Its Implications
Recent reports have brought into light Elon Musk’s extensive use of ketamine. This has raised concerns about the drug’s effects and safety. Musk, who has been a close adviser to Donald Trump, reportedly consumed ketamine frequently. He stated that he was prescribed the drug for depression. However, the amount he used led to bladder problems. This situation sheds light on the complexities surrounding ketamine’s use in both medical and recreational contexts.
What Is Ketamine?
Ketamine is a dissociative anaesthetic. It is classified as a hallucinogen by the US Drug Enforcement Administration. Originally developed in the 1960s, it was first used as an anaesthetic for animals. In the 1970s, it gained approval for human use by the US Food and Drug Administration. Recently, ketamine has been explored for treating depression and other mental health conditions. This is especially true for patients unresponsive to traditional therapies.
Methods of Consumption
Ketamine can be administered in several ways. Medical patients often receive it through intravenous (IV) infusion, nasal spray, or tablets. Treatments typically occur once or twice a week for several weeks. Recreational users, however, may snort a white crystalline powder or inject it. Some even smoke ketamine. Each method affects the body differently, influencing the user’s experience.
Effects of Ketamine
The effects of ketamine can be deep. Many patients describe it as a “reset button” for their brains. During treatment, users may experience vivid visualisations and a sense of detachment from reality. These effects can lead to a temporary alleviation of daily stressors. However, high doses can result in the “k-hole,” a state of extreme dissociation where movement becomes difficult and hallucinations intensify.
Safety and Risks
The safety of ketamine use is a contentious topic. Some medical professionals assert that when used correctly, ketamine is effective and safe for treating mental illnesses. However, chronic use, particularly in high doses, poses risks. Patients have reported potential addiction and severe bladder damage. There is also concern about cognitive impairment associated with misuse. Research on long-term effects remains limited, denoting gap in understanding the drug’s safety profile.
| Related | |
|---|---|
