New study exposes hidden dangers of ketamine addiction

Ketamine addiction is linked to high levels of physical health problems and psychological consequences, with nearly half of those affected not seeking support or treatment, new research has revealed.

The study, led by the University of Exeter and University College London (UCL), is the largest to date to explore the experience of people currently living with ketamine addiction in-depth. Supported by NIHR, the research included interviews with users, in which many said they were not aware of the risks of addiction until their ketamine use was already out of control, with one calling ketamine "the heroin of a generation".

Researchers studied 274 people who identified as having ketamine use disorder, and found previously under-reported symptoms. Of those, 60 per cent had experienced bladder or nasal problems. The study also found that 56 per cent reported K-cramps – a painful organ cramping linked to excessive ketamine use, with which can often drive people back to the drug to seek relief from the pain of this symptom. Bladder problems can involve needing a full bladder removal, and the need for a urostomy bag to collect urine.

Psychological symptoms included cravings, low mood, anxiety and irritability. The research, published in Addiction, found that only 56 per cent of participants sought treatment, and only 36 per cent of those were satisfied with their care.

We know that ketamine use is on the rise, with a number of high-profile tragedies linked to ketamine addiction. Meanwhile, a growing number of clinical trials are finding therapeutic benefits involving ketamine in carefully-controlled environments, combined with therapy. Our research is the first to analyse in-depth the experience of people using very large amounts of ketamine, and shows the devastating physical health problems people can face with dependent ketamine use. Our study also highlights the barriers that people with ketamine addiction face when they try to seek treatment, often being sent away from treatment services."

Professor Celia Morgan, Study Author of University of Exeter

Uk government data indicates that ketamine use has more than doubled since 2016, with a threefold increase among 25-year-olds.

To investigate the impact on those who develop an addition to ketamine, the study involved both questionnaires and interviews. In the study, 59 per cent of participants reported that there was "definitely not" enough awareness in education and among peer groups around the risks associated with ketamine, with many reporting that they did not know the drug could be addictive. Many reported feeling too embarrassed to seek treatment.

In interviews, one participant said: "People know the risks about Heroin and Cocaine, but not how the addiction to Ketamine can become even stronger than being addicted to heroin or cocaine."

While another told researchers:

"I feel it is the heroin of a generation, and more information will become available once more time passes and more people my age begin to suffer so greatly from misuse that it can't be hidden anymore.

Participants also painted a picture of a lack of understanding among health professionals. One said: All they did was give me painkillers and send me on my way", while another reported "GP doesn't think ketamine is addictive, just told me to stop, doesn't have a clue".

Co-author Rebecca Harding, a PhD candidate at University College London, said: "Our study highlights the need for greater recognition of the significant physical and psychological risks associated with ketamine, both among healthcare professionals and the general public. We need improved treatment programs, while raising awareness of ketamine use, to better support those seeking care. By focusing on evidence-based treatments, such as specialised group therapy and pharmacological interventions, we can improve access to effective treatment and address the growing challenge of ketamine use disorder."

The paper is titled "The landscape of ketamine use disorder: patient experiences and perspectives on current treatment options", and is published in Addiction.