Medical professionals at Alder Hey Hospital in Liverpool have documented cases of ketamine-related bladder damage in children as young as 13 years old, with some patients potentially having started use at age 12 or younger. The hospital opened a dedicated clinic last May to address the issue and has received over 100 referrals since its establishment.
According to clinic leadership, affected children report symptoms including bedwetting, increased urinary urgency, painful urination, and in some cases accidental incontinence. Patients describe the sensation as “peeing over broken glass” or “peeing a jellyfish,” the latter referring to shedding of bladder protective lining. Prolonged exposure can result in serious complications including incontinence, uncontrolled urination, and kidney failure. The clinic has documented a sharp rise in cases, seeing one patient in 2023, nine in 2024, and experiencing what staff characterized as rapid escalation in 2025. Currently, the clinic receives approximately one referral weekly from general practitioners and emergency departments across Cheshire, Merseyside, and neighboring regions.
Often, affected children use ketamine to manage pain caused by the drug itself, creating what medical staff term a “K loop.” The drug’s accessibility—available at pocket-money prices in small quantities—combined with its dreamlike and relaxing effects contributes to continued use. Many affected children have pre-existing conditions such as ADHD or history in the care system. Among the first 60 patients seen, 43 were girls. Research from the British Association of Urological Surgeons indicates approximately three of every ten frequent ketamine users develop bladder issues.
While stopping use can sometimes reverse damage, severe cases may require surgical bladder repair or removal. Additionally, reports suggest heavy users may experience liver damage, though causality remains difficult to establish given concurrent use of other substances. Although cannabis and alcohol remain more prevalent among young people, ketamine has risen to approximately third place in popularity. Efforts have been made to reclassify ketamine as a Class A controlled substance, but the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs has recommended it remain classified as Class B.
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