The cause of death of actor Matthew Perry, known for his role as “Chandler” in the series “Friends,” was a mystery. The famous artist was found dead in the hot tub of his home in Los Angeles, California on October 28th.
The reasons for his death were suspected to be heart failure or drowning, but it was only this Friday that it was confirmed that his death was due to the effects of ketamine, according to the autopsy report.
American media said high levels of the substance were found in his blood, which was the cause of his death.
People magazine points out that the actor apparently underwent ketamine infusion therapy, but the last treatment came a week and a half before his death.
Ketamine killed Matthew Perry
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According to the report, the ketamine found in his body had been in his system for three to four hours.
What is Ketamine?
According to the official US Department of Justice website, ketamine is an anesthetic. “Its primary legitimate use is as a veterinary anesthetic; However, its use is approved in both animals and humans,” the company said.
This substance comes in the form of a white, crystalline powder or liquid.
According to data from Échele Cabeza, a project for the dissemination of data on psychoactive substances, this drug contains ketamine hydrochloride in quantities that can vary from less than 7% to 99%, depending on the origin of the drug, be it hospital, veterinary or illegal market.
It should be noted that the drug component is used clinically to induce loss of sensitivity and consciousness or to induce sleep in patients undergoing surgery.
According to the National Cancer Institute, this drug, also known as general anesthetic “Ketalar,” is being studied to treat pain caused by chemotherapy.
The doses “produce a range of effects ranging from mild intoxication, stimulation and mild perceptual disturbances to the most shocking dreamlike and truly hallucinatory states,” says Échele Cabeza’s website.
What impact does it have?
Currently, its medical use is as a sedative for domestic and farm animals, as well as a general anesthetic in the specialties of pediatrics, geriatrics, and in experimental psychological therapies to treat alcoholism and other diseases.
According to Échele Cabeza, this medication may also cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, dizziness, sweating, headache, confusion, and disorientation.
It is emphasized that continuous consumption generates dependence and tolerance, “as well as the possible occurrence of physical disorders (stomach pain, eye problems, tremors) and psychological disorders (anxiety, insomnia, psychosis) and can also cause kidney damage,” the organization added. It is also said that a consequence of frequent use is problems with memory, attention and concentration.
It should be noted that mixing the substance with medium or large amounts of alcohol or other sedatives may cause loss of consciousness and, in some cases, respiratory failure.
According to the US Department of Justice, this substance is listed on Schedule 3 of the Controlled Substances Act along with codeine and anabolic steroids because it has a lower potential for abuse than other drugs such as heroin or cocaine.