A new paper published in JAMA suggests a possible correlation between the ingestion of ketamine and a localized inability to stand up. However, experts caution that the data remains observational and direct causation has yet to be proven.
The study, which followed a cohort of 400 first-time users across several dimly lit Brooklyn warehouses, observed that subjects who inhaled the potent veterinary anesthetic were significantly more likely to enter a nearly catatonic state than a placebo control group. While researchers noted a pronounced tendency among the ketamine group to lie face-down on a concrete floor for several hours, authors of the paper stressed that confounding variables—such as exhaustion, ambient strobe lighting, or pre-existing lethargy—could not be entirely ruled out.
While we are seeing a strong statistical association between taking a drug designed to sedate a 2,000-pound stallion and suddenly becoming completely immobilized, it is far too early to declare a definitive mechanism of action.
Dr. Gable emphasized that the data relies heavily on observational metrics, as subjects in the immobilized state were largely unable to hold a pen to fill out the standard self-reported questionnaires. Furthermore, the protocol was hampered by the fact that researchers could only verify the subjects were still conscious by holding a small mirror under their noses, a methodology that has not yet been universally standardized for clinical field work.
In light of the findings, the NIH has issued updated guidance recommending further multi-phase clinical trials before drawing any definitive conclusions. Until a double-blind, randomized study can successfully replicate the sudden onset of profound muscular paralysis, experts advise the medical community to view any claims that anesthetics cause anesthesia with a healthy dose of scientific skepticism.