Matthew Perry’s cause of death was determined to be the acute effects of ketamine, according to the toxicology report from the LA County Medical Examiner’s Office. The FRIENDS actor was found dead in a jacuzzi at his home on October 28, 2023. The death was ruled accidental, and no foul play or involvement of drugs was found in his body.
It was revealed that Perry had undergone ketamine infusion therapy, which helped him with his depression and anxiety disorder. Sadly, recreational ketamine use is proving more dangerous in the U.S., with one report suggesting an 81% increase in ketamine poisonings between 2019 and 2021.
Matthew Perry’s Cause of Death Is Ketamine Poisoning
According to the toxicology report obtained by Variety, Matthew Perry’s accidental death was caused by the “acute effects of ketamine”, though the exact manner of intake is unknown. The report also mentioned the other conditions contributing to his death as drowning, coronary artery disease, and buprenorphine effects.
The toxicology report suggested that the high levels of ketamine resulted in cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression. It also detailed Perry’s ketamine infusion therapy, noting that he had been undergoing the therapy every other week for some time before a new doctor reduced the frequency six months ago.
Sources close to the actor suggested that he was in a positive state of mind in the days prior to his death. He was reportedly playing pickleball shortly before his passing. The 17 Again actor was open about his substance abuse issues and mental health struggles. His recent memoir, Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing, included the details of his alcohol and drug addiction.
With Perry’s untimely death, the potential dangers surrounding ketamine use and its effects have come to light. While mental health is a growing concern in the U.S., the complexities surrounding its treatment also need major awareness. The recreational drugs used for treatment, including ketamine, need proper monitoring.
Matthew Perry’s Cause of Death Is A Growing Concern
According to a study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, ketamine poisoning increased by 81% in the U.S. between 2019 and 2021. The study collected data from poison control centers across the country. It also hints at the growing use of recreational ketamine among Americans.
Inherently, Ketamine is not a dangerous drug, but it could be dangerous when used in potentially hazardous situations. The study also concludes that people should be made aware of the dangers of using the drug recreationally. The lead author Joseph Palamar wrote in his study:
“Ketamine is by no means the most dangerous drug, but it could be dangerous if combined with drugs such as alcohol or if used in potentially hazardous situations — physically hazardous or socially hazardous. People who decide to use ketamine recreationally need to be educated about potential risks.”
Perry’s death came as a shock to many, as he was on a path to regaining control over his life. He was best remembered for his role as Chandler Bing in over 200 episodes of the NBC sitcom FRIENDS.
