Publication Date: March 21, 2025
Following the tragic death of James Lee Williams (The Vivienne), the inaugural winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, this article features critical expert commentary from Dr. Eric Chaghouri, Medical Director at No Matter What Recovery. The piece reveals that the beloved drag performer died of cardiac arrest caused by ketamine use, prompting urgent warnings about the drug’s dangers. Dr. Chaghouri explains that ketamine is “a dissociative anesthetic” that causes euphoria and dissociation in low doses, but can lead to hallucinations and immobilization at higher doses in what’s known as a “k-hole.” He details the serious risks of ketamine toxicity, including respiratory depression, hypotension, bradycardia, myocardial infarction, seizure, stupor, and coma. The article addresses why ketamine use has been rising, particularly among young people and in LGBTQIA+ spaces, partly due to increased accessibility through FDA-approved depression treatments and medical clinics. Dr. Chaghouri warns about the dangers of poor screening and lack of monitoring that can lead to abuse, noting that the drug is available both through prescriptions and illegally. He outlines key warning signs of ketamine dependency including cravings, taking more than prescribed, difficulty cutting down, and continued use despite negative consequences. The piece emphasizes that evidence-based treatments for addiction include therapy, medication, and support programs, stressing that recovery is a process requiring support and compassion from family and friends.
Read the full article on the WeHo Times.
