Dr. Irons with SKAW, LLC here. Matthew Perry’s death is a tragedy.
Since ketamine was involved in Matthew’s death we wanted to educate a little on what that means and how this kind of thing could happen.
- The amount of ketamine in his system far exceeds dosing used in a clinic setting crossing over into anesthetic levels of ketamine.
- Regardless of where he got the ketamine, either illegal or prescription lozenges, the amount found in his system indicates abuse of ketamine.
- It’s a bad idea to combine any mind altering substance with bodies of water.
- Any medication or substance (pill, alcohol, caffeine, etc) can be consumed in unhealthy quantities and unfortunate accidents can occur. This is why healthcare providers try to diligently remind everyone of the safe ways to consume the medications that they are prescribing. It is always recommended to follow your prescribing physicians recommendations on safe use of the medications. There is a reason they are recommending it.
Yes, ketamine is generally incredibly safe when used in a clinic setting and it is stories like these that bring to light the critical importance of utilizing a ketamine clinic where your safety can be monitored by trained and licensed staff who can guide your dosing as well as intervene if needed.
Let me know if you have any questions, concerns or thoughts that you would like to discuss regarding ketamine therapy.
***If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use disorder please reach out to 1 (800) 662-4357***
Dr. Irons, M.D., is a double board-certified anesthesiologist, and member of the American Society of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists and Practitioners (ASKP3). He is founder and medical director at Southern Ketamine and Wellness.
