The dangers of ketamine

Ketamine use has dramatically increased across the nation - as far back as March 2023, it was recorded that over 299,000 people aged between 16-59 had used ketamine that year, with numbers more than tripling in those under 25*.

(* Source: Gov.UK)

Thousands of young people are using the drug, without understanding the true level of devastation it causes. 

Traditionally used as general anesthetic and pain relief by doctors and vets, Ketamine (also known as ‘Vitamin K’, ‘Special K’, ‘Katie’, ‘Super K’, ‘K’, ‘Donkey Dust’, ‘Ket’ or ‘Wonk’), produces a feeling of detachment from your body and the external world. It's  become a drug of choice for many, being cheaper than alcohol, but far more potent. 

It's also the drug that is most often used in spiking incidents, and recent reports show that Ketamine is often included in ‘pink cocaine’, the dangerous synthetic drug cocktail taken by users without knowing what mix of substances it contains.

Effects of ketamine - physical

Whilst the short-term effects of ketamine include a sense of euphoria and floating and a sense of well-being, it can also cause:

• hallucinations
• drowsiness
• amnesia
• slurred speech
• nausea
• vomiting
• dissociation 

 And longer term and more continued use can lead to other serious issues such as:

• K-Hole; the feeling of complete separation between mind and body
• kidney damage
• K-Cramps; cramping and pain in the bladder, caused by:
• K-Bladder; the disintegration of the lining of the bladder, which may lead to the continued need to use the toilet, incontinence and the need for surgery. 

These symptoms are also numbed by the use of ketamine, leading to a false sense of security and continued use.

Mental health impact

Ketamine use often leads to poor mental health, with users experiencing flashbacks, memory loss, mood swings and problems with concentration.  Regular use also causes depression, isolation, hallucinations, paranoia, psychosis and in some cases this leads to suicide, overdose and death.

Ketamine also exasperates existing mental health conditions and can lead to irreversible psychological impairment.

A video with Tracy Morelli, mother of Sophie Russell, who died on 26th September 2024 as the result of ketamine:

James Dear, creator of the podcast Break the Chain, shares his own personal experience of dealing with a ketamine addiction. In this powerful and honest video, James shares his journey through addiction, recovery, and the ongoing fight to raise awareness of the devastation that ketamine causes. James’ story is a raw, real, and inspiring reminder that healing is possible - and that no one is alone in their struggle. 

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13 June 2025