Dorset coroner calls for review into Ketamine after woman's death
Gemma Weeks, 28, was found dead at her Dorset home in January and an inquest found she died from the effects of Ketamine
A Dorset coroner has called on the government to review the dangers of Ketamine after a 28 year old woman died from its effects.
Gemma Weeks, 28, had been a Ketamine user for around 10 years, with her use of the Class B drug increasing over the years.
Coroner Brendan Allen said there are reports that in 2024 she used around £500 of Ketamine per week.
Ms Weeks, who was originally from Devon, was found dead at her Dorset home in January and the inquest into her death concluded she died from toxicity and bladder damage caused by Ketamine.
Mr Allen has sent a Prevention of Future Deaths Report to the Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.
In the report he said he's concerned abut the perception that Ketamine, a Class B drug, is less dangerous than class A drugs and that it has become available cheaply.
Mr Allen added: "It is also highly addictive, with reports of usage notably increasing in young people, among whom the risks of ketamine use do not appear to be well understood.
"Local drug treatment agencies have seen a corresponding increase in individuals reporting ketamine addiction and seeking assistance for the same.
"Ketamine’s classification as a class B controlled drug may give an impression that the dangers associated with its use are reduced as compared with class A drugs.
"There is little understanding of the risks and dangers of ketamine use amongst the age group that appear to be at most risk of starting to use the drug."
In the report Mr Allen said Ms Weeks, was significantly underweight and suffered from ketamine bladder syndrome, a condition which causes considerable pain and incontinence.
He wrote: "Miss Weeks was unable, even with considerable support, to achieve a sustained period of abstinence.
"She reported that the pain caused by the damage to her bladder could only be relieved by the analgesic properties of ketamine, thereby leading to further and increased use, causing further bladder damage."
The Home Office has until October 14 to respond to the coroner's report.