Matthew Perry cause of death listed as ‘acute effects of ketamine’

The Los Angeles County coroner has released the official cause of death for actor Matthew Perry, who died on November 23, 2023 at the age of 54.

According to the report, Perry’s death was caused by “acute effects of ketamine and drowning” and was ruled an accident.

Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit sitcom Friends, had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy prior to his death, reportedly for depression and anxiety.

Ketamine is a powerful anesthetic and psychedelic drug that has been used as a treatment for various mental health conditions, but also has the potential for abuse and addiction.

The toxicology report adds: “At the high levels of ketamine found in his postmortem blood specimens, the main lethal effects would be from both cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression”.

The report also notes that Perry had a history of alcohol and drug abuse, and that he had been diagnosed with pancreatitis and cirrhosis of the liver.

Perry’s death shocked and saddened his fans and colleagues, who remembered him as a talented and funny actor who struggled with his personal demons.

His former co-stars from Friends paid tribute to him on social media, expressing their love and grief. Perry’s funeral was held on December 1, 2023, and was attended by his family and close friends.