Rising Ketamine-Related Deaths in the UK Highlight Polydrug Risks and Need for Comprehensive Harm Reduction

Recent analysis reveals a concerning surge in deaths linked to illicit ketamine use in the UK, with fatalities increasing twentyfold since 2015. The study, conducted by King's College London in collaboration with the University of Hertfordshire and Manchester Metropolitan University, examined coroners' reports from England, Wales, and Northern Ireland spanning nearly three decades (1999–2024). A total of 696 deaths with evidence of illicit ketamine presence were identified, marking the most detailed assessment of ketamine-related mortality in these regions to date.

Ketamine, a Class B anesthetic known for its hallucinogenic properties, is increasingly popular due to its low cost—ranging from £15 to £30 per gram—compared to other illicit drugs like cocaine. This affordability, coupled with rising recreational use, has contributed to the escalating death toll, which correlates with the fact that an estimated 299,000 people aged 16–59 reported using illicit ketamine in 2024.

While deaths involving ketamine have grown, the proportion of cases where ketamine was the sole or primary cause has significantly declined. Instead, most fatalities now involve complex polydrug use, with opioids, cocaine, benzodiazepines, and gabapentinoids frequently detected alongside ketamine. The number of substances involved in each case has also increased, illustrating more dangerous mixing patterns.

A demographic shift is evident: although ketamine-related harms such as bladder injury and dependency remain a concern among young people, recent data indicates that older, socioeconomically disadvantaged, and heavily dependent users are increasingly vulnerable. Dr. Caroline Copeland of King's College London emphasized that most deaths involve multiple drugs and affect marginalized populations, making legislation targeting only ketamine unlikely to effectively reduce harm.

The study highlights gender disparities, with 85% of ketamine-related deaths from 2020 to 2024 involving men. Employment status within this period reveals a balanced distribution among employed, unemployed, and student populations, with a notable increase in deaths among socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. The majority of these deaths were classified as accidental (88.9%), with a small percentage deemed suicidal.

Experts advocate for expanded harm reduction strategies, such as drug checking services, overdose prevention programs, better access to treatment, and targeted education about the risks associated with polydrug use. Ketamine’s medical use as a sedative and veterinary anesthetic contrasts sharply with its dangers when misused, particularly when combined with depressants, which complicates effects and raises the risk of overdoses.

Dr. Copeland asserted that to effectively reduce fatalities, a comprehensive approach addressing social factors, drug dependence, and health harms must replace simplistic legislative measures. Recognizing the complex reality of drug use today is vital for creating policies that truly safeguard public health.

For more details, the full report is published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology. This research was supported by King's College London and provides critical insights into the evolving landscape of illegal ketamine use and associated mortality.

Source: Medical Xpress