Non-prescribed ketamine use is rising in the UK

The rise in non-prescribed use of ketamine across the UK in recent years is concerning because of the potential effects on physical and mental wellbeing and overall quality of life.Despite its classification as a class B drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, public awareness of the risks and long term harms associated with ketamine remains insufficient.Ketamine is used clinically as a general anaesthetic, with subanaesthetic doses prescribed for chronic pain, treatment resistant depression, and suicidality. 1 Recent studies have shown promise for its use in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder and opioid and alcohol dependence. 2 Although intranasal esketamine is licensed for treatment of depression, it is not approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.Generic racemic ketamine is often used as a cheaper off-label alternative.