A significant increase in ketamine-related treatment referrals has prompted healthcare providers and researchers to examine how best to support younger users experiencing accelerated harm from the drug. The Kaleidoscope drugs charity reported two referrals for detox and rehabilitation in 2021 compared with 112 so far this year, with the majority of clients aged 18 to 24. The University of South Wales is conducting research into the specific support needs of this demographic, as evidence suggests the physical damage caused by chronic, escalating ketamine use occurs far more rapidly than harm from alcohol or Class A drugs.
Ketamine was reclassified as a Class B drug in 2014, making its possession and distribution illegal. Despite this status, illicit use among those aged 16 to 59 in the UK was estimated to involve about 264,000 people in 2024-25, with those seeking treatment for ketamine use disorders increasing twelvefold over the course of a decade. Service providers have noted that the accessibility and low cost of the drug contribute to frequent and high-volume use patterns, particularly among younger users whose habits often formed during their school years.
The physical consequences reported by users include memory problems, chronic pain, bladder damage, and kidney failure. Some individuals have experienced severe complications such as nasal collapse from snorting and urinary tract issues requiring medical intervention. Treatment facilities traditionally designed for older adults are being forced to rapidly adapt to accommodate much younger populations with markedly different needs and more complex medical presentations.
Researchers have identified gaps in how existing healthcare systems address ketamine use disorders. Young people often struggle to access appropriate support through general practitioners and emergency services, as symptoms may not be immediately linked to ketamine use or the substance use history may not be adequately explored. Healthcare workers acknowledge uncertainty about which interventions are most effective for this specific population, highlighting the need for continued research and service development tailored to younger users’ distinct circumstances and health profiles.
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