28 January 2026
Today's publication of the ACMD's review on the use and harms of ketamine confirms what we see in everyday services. At WithYou, we welcome the decision not to reclassify ketamine as a Class A drug. Evidence shows that reclassification does not reduce harm.
Abigail Wilson, director of pharmacy at WithYou, said:
“I welcome today's publication of the ACMD's comprehensive review on the use and harms of ketamine. As a charity that provides treatment for people struggling with drugs, including ketamine, we think the decision not to reclassify ketamine as Class A is the right one. We already know reclassification won't reduce the growing harms we're seeing. Since the previous reclassification of ketamine from Class C to Class B in 2014, ketamine use has doubled.
“We absolutely recognise the serious health risks at play. The rise in bladder damage from ketamine use, and other long-term complications are alarming and we've responded by working with partners to improve treatment pathways and focusing on increasing awareness and education.
“Rather than the threat of punishment which deters people from seeking help, we must prioritise prevention, early intervention, and easy to access support for those experiencing ketamine-related harm.”