New Study Reveals Alarming Rise in Ketamine Addiction, Highlighting Serious Health Risks and Barriers to Treatment

New Study Reveals Alarming Rise in Ketamine Addiction, Highlighting Serious Health Risks and Barriers to Treatment

(IN BRIEF) A new study led by the University of Exeter and University College London (UCL) sheds light on the growing issue of ketamine addiction, revealing significant physical and psychological health problems among users, many of whom are unaware of the risks until addiction has taken hold. The research found that nearly half of individuals with ketamine use disorder do not seek treatment, and only a third of those who do are satisfied with their care. The study also highlights the severe health consequences, including bladder and nasal problems, as well as K-cramps. With ketamine use on the rise, the study calls for greater awareness and improved treatment options to address the challenges posed by ketamine addiction.

(PRESS RELEASE) EXETER, 29-Apr-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — New research from the University of Exeter and University College London (UCL) has revealed alarming findings about ketamine addiction, highlighting its significant physical and psychological toll on individuals, many of whom are unaware of the risks until it is too late. The study, the largest of its kind to date, provides an in-depth look into the experiences of people living with ketamine use disorder. Supported by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), the study involved interviews with 274 individuals who identified as having ketamine addiction, shedding light on both the underreported health consequences and the barriers they face in seeking treatment.

The research found that nearly half (56%) of participants had sought treatment for their ketamine use, but only 36% were satisfied with the care they received. The study also revealed that physical health issues were widespread among users, with 60% of participants suffering from bladder or nasal problems, including severe cases that sometimes required bladder removal and the use of a urostomy bag. Furthermore, 56% of participants reported experiencing K-cramps, a painful cramping of organs that often drives users to continue using ketamine for relief. These physical symptoms are compounded by psychological symptoms, including cravings, low mood, anxiety, and irritability.

Professor Celia Morgan from the University of Exeter, who led the study, emphasized the increasing prevalence of ketamine use, noting that “ketamine use is on the rise, with numerous high-profile tragedies linked to ketamine addiction.” She also pointed out the paradox of ketamine’s therapeutic potential, with growing clinical trials investigating its use in controlled settings, combined with therapy. However, for those with addiction, the physical and psychological damage caused by the drug can be devastating. “Our research highlights the barriers to treatment that individuals with ketamine addiction face, often being turned away from services,” Professor Morgan added.

The study also found that ketamine use has more than doubled in the UK since 2016, with a threefold increase among individuals aged 25. Despite the growing use, 59% of participants said that awareness about the risks of ketamine was insufficient, both in education and among peer groups. Many users were unaware of the drug’s addictive nature and felt too embarrassed to seek help. As one participant noted, “People know the risks about heroin and cocaine, but not how the addiction to ketamine can become even stronger.”

The research also uncovered a lack of understanding among healthcare professionals, with several participants reporting inadequate responses when seeking help. One participant shared, “All they did was give me painkillers and sent me on my way,” while another reported, “My 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 UCL, stressed the importance of raising awareness and improving treatment options for ketamine addiction. “Our study highlights the need for better recognition of the physical and psychological risks of ketamine use among healthcare professionals and the public. To support those seeking care, we must improve treatment programs, raise awareness, and focus on evidence-based interventions like specialized group therapy and pharmacological treatments.”

The findings were published in the journal Addiction in the paper titled “The Landscape of Ketamine Use Disorder: Patient Experiences and Perspectives on Current Treatment Options.”

Media Contact:

email: pressoffice@exeter.ac.uk

SOURCE: University of Exeter