Matthew Perry had reportedly been clean for 19 months before his death, as stated in an autopsy report obtained from the Los Angeles County Coroner. According to the report, Perry had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy for his addiction and had received treatment one and a half weeks prior to his death. However, the amount of ketamine found in his system at the time of death could not have come from the recent infusion therapy, as the drug's effects last only 3 to 4 hours.

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that can produce hallucinogenic effects. It alters sight and sound perception and leaves users feeling disconnected and out of control.

It can induce sedation, immobility, pain relief, and amnesia. The autopsy concluded that Perry's cause of death was due to the acute effects of the drug. Contributing factors to his death included drowning, coronary artery disease, and the effects of buprenorphine, a medication used to treat opioid addiction. The coroner ruled Perry's death as accidental.

Perry was found unresponsive in a residential pool, but there were no prescription medications or drugs near the pool. The autopsy revealed no signs of fatal trauma or evidence of foul play.

The high levels of ketamine in his system likely led to cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression, with drowning occurring as a result of losing consciousness and submerging in the pool.

Perry had been open about his struggles with addiction throughout his life. In his memoir, he discussed his journey to sobriety and the pride he felt in staying clean. The actor had plans to establish a foundation to support individuals with addiction issues before his untimely death. His family fulfilled this goal by establishing a foundation in his honor after his passing.

If you or someone you know is dealing with substance abuse, please reach out to the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-HELP for assistance.