The UK has ketamine problem. Its use increased by 85 per cent between 2023 and 2024. Paul Kenyon investigates the global trade in the drug.

Ketamine, like other drugs of abuse,has been approved for medical use. But, it is being increasingly abused by individuals worldwide, causing serious health problems and concerns.

Some people are now using low-dose oral ketamine to manage treatment-resistant depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (Journal of Psychopharmacology, June 5, 2025). The FDA has not approved oral ketamine for any indication.