DOCTORS have sounded the alarm over an eight-fold rise in ketamine addiction in a decade.
The powerful tranquilliser is popular with Generation Z because of its relatively low cost, experts say.
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Clinics in England treated 3,609 people of all ages for addiction last year, eight times more than 426 in 2014, figures reveal.
Ketamine, also referred to as “K” or “Ket”, numbs pain and can cause a trippy high.
Dealers sell it in powder form for around £20 to £40 a gram compared with £40 to £60 a gram for low-quality cocaine.
Doctors say heavy use can cause liver disease and permanently damage the bladder and kidneys. It is linked to constipation, depression and loss of mental sharpness.
Many medics fail to understand how addictive it can be, an NHS report said.
Led by Dr Irene Guerrini of the South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, it called the drug’s prevalence “concerning”.
It said: “As ketamine use increases, more individuals are seeking treatment for addiction.
“Long-term use can seriously harm both physical and mental health, diminishing quality of life, affecting personal relationships and impairing academic or professional performance.”
Dr Guerrini called for stricter guidelines on how the NHS uses the drug and more funds for treatment and prevention.
Ministers are considering uprating 34878330from a Class B to Class A drug.
GETTING HELP:
If you think that you have a drug addiction then please contact your GP.
You can also visit FRANK for honest information about drugs and to find local treatment services.
If you are having trouble finding the right help, call the FRANK drugs helpline on 03001236600
Or click here to visit the NHS website for more advice and support
