Health risks associated with use of Ketamine as a recreational drug

The long-term health risks associated with use of Ketamine as a recreational drug, particularly by young people, have been highlighted by concerned local councillors.

There was overwhelming backing at the May meeting of Cheshire West and Chester Council for a motion put forward by Ellesmere Port Labour councillors calling for measures to reduce the harms associated with Ketamine use by younger people.

Used appropriately, Ketamine is a regularly used anaesthetic. A Class B drug reclassified from Class C in 2014, it is also used to counter depression and in pain management.

However, the drug is being increasingly used by young people because of its hallucinatory effects.

The downside of widespread use of Ketamine is that it can cause major bladder and renal problems which can have long-lasting effects. It affects the lining of the bladder, in some instances causing it to shrink.

Councillors highlighted actions taken in Liverpool to combat the dangers of Ketamine usage and called on Cheshire West council to follow suit. They were worried about rising levels of drug abuse and voiced fears about a mental health crisis across CWaC communities.

Responding to the motion put forward by Councillor Lisa Denson, Ellesmere Port colleague Jimmy Shannon said he had visited a group in the town which was doing “absolutely fantastic” work in combatting drug-related issues.

Cllr Katie Kendrick said Ketamine could be bought on the streets of Liverpool for as little as £5. Consideration was being made to upgrading Ketamine to a Class A drug.

Other councillors fully backed the motion but pointed out it was a problem which affected adults too. And it was pointed out suppliers of Ketamine should be targeted.

Pictured - Jimmy Shannon.