Frequent trips to the toilet
Going to the toilet more often, urgency, burning when urinating, or blood in the urine can indicate bladder problems, including harm associated with ketamine. Seek prompt medical advice for these symptoms.
Recognise • Talk • Support
7 signs that could be linked to ketamine use
Some warning signs are easy to overlook. Understanding them may help you have a caring conversation with a friend, family member or young person who could need support.
Important: None of these signs on its own proves ketamine use. Many can have other physical, emotional or social causes. Avoid assumptions or accusations.
Know what to look for
The seven possible warning signs
These signs are adapted from the H23 Foundation awareness campaign. They are prompts to pay attention and offer help, not a checklist for diagnosing substance use.
Severe stomach pain
Repeated or intense abdominal pain, sometimes described as “K-cramps”, may be linked to ketamine-related harm. Severe or persistent pain needs urgent medical assessment.
Sudden secrecy
Becoming unusually withdrawn, private or distant from family and friends could prompt a gentle conversation. Secrecy alone is not evidence of drug use.
Unexplained spending
Money going missing or repeated unexplained small purchases might raise concerns. Ask openly rather than assuming what the money is for.
Mood and behaviour changes
Noticeable mood swings, confusion, unusual behaviour, or seeming detached or “zoned out” can have many causes, including substance use.
Memory or weight changes
New memory difficulties, concentration problems or unexplained weight loss warrant attention and, where appropriate, a health assessment.
Drug paraphernalia
Unexplained powder, tiny plastic bags or folded paper wraps may be associated with drugs. Never identify a substance by appearance alone, and avoid handling unknown materials.
A better first response
Don't start with an accusation. Start with a conversation.
Choose a calm moment
Speak somewhere private when both of you feel safe. Mention what you've noticed without labelling the person.
Listen without judgement
Try “I've noticed you're not feeling yourself lately. Is everything OK?” Give them time to talk.
Offer practical help
Encourage a GP appointment or confidential drug support. You can offer to sit with them while they seek help.
Medical urgency: Blood in urine needs an urgent GP appointment or NHS 111 advice. Significant bladder symptoms or recurring pain should be assessed by a clinician. If someone is unconscious, having a seizure, struggling to breathe or in immediate danger, call 999. In an urgent but non-emergency situation in the UK, contact NHS 111. Emotional crisis support is also listed through the H23 Foundation.
In her Honor, we will save others
Support the H23 Foundation
The H23 Foundation raises awareness of ketamine-related harm and works to improve education, family support and advocacy. Visit its official website for information, support resources and ways to help its mission.
Independent awareness page inspired by H23 Foundation's public campaign. This website is not an official H23 Foundation website and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.