Background
Self-reported past year ketamine use has steadily increased in the UK since the mid-2000s. Concerns about increased use and related harms have led to calls for reclassifying ketamine from Class B to Class A.
Methods
This mixed-methods project surveyed 400 young people and 132 professionals, and interviewed 84 key professionals, and 22 ketamine users (aged 14 to 24). In addition, local treatment providers in Greater Manchester, England, supplied ketamine-related treatment data and case studies to enhance understanding of treatment needs, presentation types, support requirements, and outcomes.
Results
Treatment professionals highlighted earlier onset of use, leading to earlier onset of urological complications with young people presenting to services in crisis. Ketamine is often used beyond a club setting, to self-medicate anxiety, relax, and aid sleep. Professionals frequently noted a link between dependent ketamine use and childhood trauma. There was a general lack of awareness about the risks associated with ketamine use, and where awareness exists, it is often accompanied by myths, such as the belief that crushing ketamine can prevent bladder damage.
Conclusions
Instead of reclassifying ketamine as a Class A drug, a harm reduction approach is recommended. This should involve increasing awareness among both young people and medical professionals about the risks of ketamine use and the early signs of bladder damage. Medical professionals should be required to inquire about ketamine use when patients present with symptoms like stomach pains. A comprehensive, whole-systems approach is necessary, including the development of a national ketamine treatment protocol.