Potent powders can produce a nearly catatonic state, particularly in those who have not tried the drug before. Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, can immobilize users by disrupting communication between brain regions responsible for perception and movement. This effect is more pronounced in novice users whose brains have not developed tolerance to the drug’s impact on glutamate receptors.
Medical professionals note that while the immobilizing effect can be unsettling, it is typically temporary and dose-dependent. The phenomenon underscores the importance of controlled settings when ketamine is used therapeutically. Recreational users face heightened risks due to unpredictable potency and lack of supervision.
Health experts advise against unsupervised use, especially for first-time consumers. Understanding this response helps inform harm reduction strategies and clinical guidelines for ketamine administration.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing