An autopsy report revealed Matthew Perry died from acute effects of the anesthetic drug ketamine, and his death was ruled accidental.
RELATED STORIES: Matthew Perry Dies At 54 After Apparent Drowning
In a statement by the Los Angeles County Department of the Medical Examiner, it was revealed that the actor drowned in the heated end of his pool. Still, it was listed as a secondary factor in his death, the Associated Post reported. Sources close to the actor explained to investigators that he was undergoing ketamine infusion therapy as an experimental treatment to manage anxiety and depression. However, the medical examiner said the levels of the drug in Perry’s were within the range of general anesthesia during surgery, and his last treatment was 1 1/2 weeks before his death.
The autopsy report also stated that coronary artery disease and buprenorphine, which is used to treat opioid usage, also contributed to Perry’s death. Due to the amount of ketamine in his system, it would’ve been enough to make the actor lose consciousness, along with his posture and the ability to stay above the water.
RELATED STORIES: Jennifer Aniston Speaks Out On The Passing Of “Friends” Co-Star Matthew Perry
Before his death, Perry was reportedly clean for 19 months despite being known for his past drug usage. His autopsy was performed the day after, and he played pickleball hours before his death. His assistant found his body, and investigators said the actor was face down in the pool when the assistant returned after running errands. Additionally, his apparent coronary artery disease would’ve made him more susceptible to the drug’s side effects.
Perry’s death impacted his castmates and fans as he is infamously known as Chandler Bing from the super-successful sitcom “Friends.” He appeared in 10 seasons from 1994 to 2004. He was also very open about his drug addiction and discussed it in his memoir.
“I loved everything about the show, but I was struggling with my addictions, which only added to my sense of shame.”