A tragic celebrity death raises serious questions about ketamine use, access, and oversight
When beloved actor Matthew Perry died in October 2023, fans around the world were heartbroken. Known for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit show Friends, Perry had long been open about his battle with addiction. But the circumstances surrounding his death—specifically, the role of the drug ketamine—have drawn new attention to how this powerful substance is being used and misused.
Now, a California doctor accused of illegally supplying Perry with ketamine is expected to plead guilty in federal court.
What Happened to Matthew Perry?
Perry was found unresponsive at his Los Angeles home on October 28, 2023. The medical examiner ruled that ketamine overdose was the primary cause of death. He was 54.
According to investigators, Perry had been receiving ketamine treatments legally through a physician for depression—an off-label use that has become more common in recent years. But as he began seeking more of the drug than his doctor would provide, other sources entered the picture.
One of those sources was Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who has now agreed to plead guilty to four federal counts of illegal ketamine distribution.
The Growing Use—and Risk—of Ketamine
Ketamine is best known as a surgical anesthetic. But in the past decade, it’s gained popularity as a treatment for treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Some patients say it provides near-instant relief, especially when administered in carefully monitored clinical settings.
However, experts warn that unsupervised or recreational use of ketamine can be dangerous—and even deadly. Overuse can lead to:
- Hallucinations and dissociation
- Memory problems
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Dangerous drug interactions
- Overdose and death
In Perry’s case, court documents show he was receiving both medical and illegal doses of the drug in the weeks leading up to his death.
What the Investigation Revealed
Federal prosecutors allege that Dr. Plasencia supplied Perry with 20 vials of ketamine, lozenges, syringes, and multiple in-home injections—despite knowing the drug wasn’t being used safely or under proper medical oversight.
According to court filings, the doctor even texted a colleague, calling Perry a “moron” and asking how much money they could make from him. That colleague, along with Perry’s assistant and others involved in supplying the drug, has also pleaded guilty.
At least one other individual—allegedly a major ketamine dealer—has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial.
Why This Story Should Matter to You
The Matthew Perry case is tragic, but it also sheds light on larger issues:
- Off-label drug use (when a drug is used for something other than its original purpose) can be legal, but still risky.
- Access to powerful drugs without proper oversight can quickly turn dangerous.
- Even when a medication seems to help, using it without medical supervision is never safe.
If you or someone you love is considering ketamine treatment for mental health:
- Talk to a licensed provider with experience in ketamine-assisted therapy.
- Ask questions about monitoring, dosage, and long-term safety.
- Avoid unsupervised use or sourcing drugs outside of clinical settings.
- Stay informed—even medications with benefits can have serious side effects.
The Bottom Line
Matthew Perry’s death was preventable. His story is a heartbreaking reminder that even promising treatments like ketamine can become dangerous when misused. If you’re exploring new therapies for mental health, do it the safe way—with a trusted medical professional by your side.
