Medical Examiner Reveals Cause of Death for Matthew Perry
The autopsy report of Matthew Perry, the actor known for his role in 'Friends,' reveals that he died from the acute effects of ketamine and drowning in his pool. The report also mentions other contributing factors such as coronary artery disease and buprenorphine.
Autopsy Report Reveals Cause of Death
Matthew Perry, known for his role as Chandler Bing in the TV show 'Friends,' died from the acute effects of the anesthetic ketamine, according to the autopsy report released by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner.
The report also states that Perry drowned in the heated end of his pool, but it was considered a secondary factor in his death, which was deemed an accident.
Investigators found that Perry had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy for depression and anxiety, but the levels of ketamine in his body were higher than what is normally used for the treatment, suggesting the presence of general anesthesia levels. The report also mentioned that Perry had coronary artery disease and buprenorphine, a medication used to treat opioid use disorder, in his system.
Risks of Sedative Drugs in a Pool or Hot Tub
Dr. Andrew Stolbach, a medical toxicologist, reviewed the autopsy report and stated that the amount of ketamine detected would have caused Perry to lose consciousness and drown. He emphasized the extreme risk of using sedative drugs in a pool or hot tub, especially when alone.
Stolbach clarified that both ketamine and buprenorphine can be used safely, but their misuse in this situation proved to be fatal for Perry.
Perry was found unresponsive in the pool at his home in Los Angeles and was declared dead shortly after. The autopsy report revealed high levels of ketamine in his system, which would have affected his blood pressure, heart rate, and impulse to breathe.
Background and Contributing Factors
Past reports indicate that Perry had struggled with addiction and had been clean for 19 months prior to his death. However, the autopsy report mentioned that he had been taking testosterone shots, which made him "angry and mean." He had also been receiving ketamine infusions for his mental health, although less frequently due to feeling well.
Ketamine, although primarily used as an anesthetic during surgery, has gained popularity as an experimental treatment for various psychiatric conditions. Its off-label use is allowed if doctors believe it can benefit their patients.
The autopsy report concluded that Perry's coronary artery disease made him more susceptible to the effects of the drugs found in his system.
