Concerns Rise Over Ketamine's Severe Health Effects in Young Users

A nurse in Liverpool treating ketamine addiction has reported that some young patients have contemplated suicide due to the intense pain caused by the drug. Heavy use of ketamine can severely damage the bladder, leading to excruciating discomfort that typical pain medications fail to alleviate.

In response to the growing crisis, a specialized clinic was established at the Royal Liverpool and Aintree hospitals last November to address the complex medical issues faced by users. One patient, Megan, has been off ketamine for a year but continues to suffer from significant health problems, including organ failure and severe bladder damage.

Medical professionals at the clinic emphasize the need for comprehensive care, as many patients experience a cycle of worsening pain and dependency on the drug. While some treatments exist to help repair bladder damage, the psychological and physical toll of ketamine addiction remains a pressing concern for healthcare providers.