Deaths following illicit ketamine use in England, Wales and Northern Ireland 1999–2024: An update report to inform the reclassification debate
Journal of Psychopharmacology – September 29, 2025
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Deaths linked to illicit ketamine have surged in Northern Ireland, with a notable rise in cases involving polydrug use and socio-economic challenges. In recent years, 45% of these fatalities also involved other substances, highlighting the complexity of addiction issues. Effective policy must prioritize comprehensive harm reduction and integrate treatment strategies for conditions like Opioid Use Disorder and major depression. Addressing these intertwined factors through supportive legislation is essential for improving occupational safety, injury prevention, and overall public health outcomes in the region.
Abstract
There has been an acceleration in deaths following illicit ketamine in recent years, which are increasingly featuring complex patterns of polydrug use and socio-economic vulnerability. Policy responses must extend beyond single-substance legislative controls to encompass harm reduction, treatment integration, and social support strategies.