Last Updated:
September 5th, 2024
How does ketamine affect the body?
Ketamine is a dissociative anaesthetic used in both human and veterinary medicine. It works by blocking NMDA receptors in the brain, leading to altered perceptions and sensations.
Medically, ketamine is used for pain relief, sedation and anaesthesia, but recreationally, it can induce trance-like states, hallucinations and feelings of detachment from reality.
Users often experience euphoria, distorted sensory perception and a sense of floating. However, misuse can cause confusion, increased heart rate and potential addiction, highlighting the importance of its careful use.
Ketamine in the UK
Ketamine is a very popular drug in the UK, with many of its users being under the age of 25.
The prevalence of ketamine usage was at an all-time high of 0.8% in the general population during 2019-2020, with a notably higher rate of 3.2% among the 16- 24 age group. This indicates that young people are significantly more likely to use ketamine compared to other age groups.
Fast forward to March 2023, and the percentage of ketamine users in the 16 to 24 age bracket increased to 3.8%. This uptick suggests that ketamine’s popularity has continued to grow among young adults despite awareness campaigns and preventative measures.
Despite the statistics showing a higher preference among young adults, it can’t be discounted that ketamine usage also occurs in older adult populations.
Why do people mix ketamine and alcohol?
People mix ketamine and alcohol for various reasons, though it’s important to note that this combination can be dangerous and is not recommended. Here are some of the common reasons:
Enhanced effects
Some individuals mix ketamine and alcohol to amplify the effects of both substances. Ketamine is a dissociative anaesthetic that can produce hallucinations and a sense of detachment from reality, while alcohol is a depressant that can lower inhibitions and create a sense of euphoria. Combining them can intensify these feelings.
Experimentation
Curiosity and a desire to experiment with different drug combinations can lead people to mix ketamine and alcohol. They might be seeking a novel experience or trying to achieve a specific type of high.
Peer influence
Social settings and peer pressure can also play a role. If friends or acquaintances are mixing ketamine and alcohol, individuals might be more likely to try the combination themselves.
Coping mechanism
Some people might mix ketamine and alcohol as a way to cope with stress, anxiety or other emotional issues. They might believe that the combination provides temporary relief from their problems.
Lack of awareness
There can be a lack of understanding about the risks associated with mixing ketamine and alcohol. People might not be fully aware of the potential for harmful interactions and the increased risk of adverse effects.
The risks of mixing ketamine and alcohol
Many people might be tempted to mix ketamine and alcohol for the enhanced effects they bring. However, combining these substances can have numerous negative consequences for both the body and mind. Understanding these risks is crucial for anyone considering or currently using these substances together.
Short-term Risks
- Respiratory depression: The combination can slow down breathing, potentially leading to respiratory failure.
- Loss of coordination: Both substances impair motor skills, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
- Blackouts and memory loss: The mixture can lead to significant memory lapses and blackouts.
- Severe nausea and vomiting: Combining ketamine and alcohol can cause intense nausea and vomiting.
- Increased risk of overdose: The sedative effects of both substances can amplify each other, leading to a potentially fatal overdose. See below for more information on ketamine and alcohol overdose.
Long-term risks
Physical
- Organ damage: Chronic use of ketamine and alcohol can lead to liver and kidney damage.
- Cardiovascular issues: Long-term use can cause heart problems, including irregular heartbeat and increased blood pressure.
- Weakened immune system: Prolonged use can compromise the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.
Behavioural
- Erratic behaviour: The mixture can lead to unpredictable and potentially dangerous behaviour.
- Social isolation: Continued use may result in withdrawal from social activities and relationships.
- Neglect of responsibilities: Individuals may start neglecting work, school or family obligations.
Psychological
- Mental health disorders: Prolonged use can exacerbate or trigger conditions like depression, anxiety and psychosis.
- Cognitive impairment: Long-term use can result in lasting damage to memory and cognitive functions.
- Addiction: The risk of developing a dependence on either or both substances increases with prolonged use, leading to a cycle of abuse that is difficult to break.
Can combining ketamine and alcohol cause an overdose?
Yes, combining ketamine and alcohol can cause an overdose. Both substances depress the central nervous system, which can lead to severe respiratory depression, unconsciousness and even death when taken together. This dangerous combination increases the risk of losing coordination, impaired judgement and potentially life-threatening symptoms.
Recognising the signs and symptoms of an overdose in yourself or others is crucial for getting quick medical attention, which could save a life. Here are the symptoms to watch out for:
- Severe confusion or agitation
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Rapid heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea or vomiting
- Seizures
If you or someone else shows any of these signs, seek medical attention immediately. Acting quickly can make a significant difference in preventing severe health consequences or saving a life.
I’ve mixed alcohol and ketamine- What should I do?
If you’ve mixed alcohol and ketamine, it’s important to stay calm and assess the situation. If you experience any signs of overdose or feel something isn’t quite right, seek medical help immediately. Here are the key steps to follow:
- Stay calm: Panicking can make the situation worse. Try to remain as calm as possible.
- Assess symptoms: Look out for signs of overdose, such as difficulty breathing, severe dizziness, confusion, loss of consciousness or an irregular heartbeat.
- Seek help: If you notice any of these symptoms or feel unwell, contact emergency services right away. It’s better to be safe and get medical attention as soon as possible.
- Avoid further consumption: Do not consume any more alcohol or ketamine, and avoid taking other substances that could worsen the situation.
Remember, your health and safety are the top priorities. Getting help quickly can make a significant difference.
How Oasis Bradford can help with ketamine and alcohol addiction
At Oasis Bradford, we provide compassionate care for those struggling with alcohol and ketamine addiction. Our experienced team understands the complexities of what can happen when you frequently mix ketamine and alcohol, offering personalised treatment plans to address both dependencies. We focus on holistic recovery, blending therapy, medical support and wellness activities to promote healing.
With a supportive environment and a dedicated team, Oasis Bradford is committed to helping you overcome ketamine and alcohol addiction and reclaim a healthier, fulfilling life.
