Chronic ketamine use associated with progressive multisystem organ dysfunction.
BMJ case reports July 8, 2026 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2026-273088 via PubMed
Summary
Chronic heavy ketamine use over 15 years in a man in his 30s led to progressive failure of multiple organ systems, including bladder inflammation (ketamine cystitis), bile duct damage (cholangiopathy), urinary tract obstruction, heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy), and mood disorder. The case demonstrates that long-term ketamine misuse can cause cumulative, widespread toxicity affecting many parts of the body.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Case study Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1 |
| Population | A man in his 30s with 15 years of heavy recreational ketamine use |
| Keywords | Common bile duct Poisoning Renal system |
| Key finding | Chronic ketamine misuse can cause cumulative multisystem toxicity involving the urinary tract, bile ducts, heart, and mood. |
Abstract
A man in his 30s developed progressive multisystem organ dysfunction following 15 years of heavy recreational ketamine use. Complications included ketamine cystitis, cholangiopathy, obstructive uropathy, cardiomyopathy and mood disorder. This case illustrates chronic ketamine misuse as a cumulative multisystem toxicity.