Ketamine Use Rises Amid Growing Concerns

Experts warn of risks from mixing ketamine with other drugs like Xanax.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 11:50am

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Ketamine, a powerful anesthetic and psychedelic drug, has seen a surge in popularity in recent years for its potential to treat depression, trauma, and addiction. However, the combination of ketamine with other medications like the anti-anxiety drug Xanax can prove fatal, as tragically demonstrated in the case of Tricia Anne Dewey, who died after taking both substances.

Why it matters

The growing recreational and therapeutic use of ketamine has raised alarms among medical professionals about the drug's risks, especially when mixed with other substances. As ketamine becomes more widely available, there are concerns about its potential for abuse and the need for greater oversight and education around its safe use.

The details

Ketamine was originally developed as an anesthetic in the 1960s, but in recent years it has gained attention for its ability to rapidly relieve symptoms of depression, PTSD, and other mental health conditions. However, ketamine can also produce dissociative and hallucinogenic effects, and there are risks of addiction and dangerous interactions with other drugs. The case of Tricia Anne Dewey illustrates the deadly consequences that can occur when ketamine is combined with other medications like the anti-anxiety drug Xanax.

  • Ketamine was developed as an anesthetic in the 1960s.
  • In recent years, ketamine has gained attention for its potential to treat depression, PTSD, and other mental health conditions.

The players

Tricia Anne Dewey

A patient who was prescribed ketamine to help with trauma and a painkiller addiction, but tragically died after combining it with Xanax.

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The takeaway

As the use of ketamine grows, both recreationally and therapeutically, there are increasing concerns about the risks of the drug, especially when combined with other substances. Greater oversight, education, and caution are needed to ensure the safe use of ketamine and prevent tragedies like the death of Tricia Anne Dewey.