Ketamine and the Bladder: A Hidden Cost of Overuse

Ketamine, when used in small, controlled doses under medical supervision, can be a powerful tool for treating depression, PTSD, and chronic pain. But when used too frequently—or recreationally—it can take a serious toll on the body, especially the bladder.

Over time, high doses of ketamine can cause a condition known as ketamine-induced cystitis, which leads to inflammation, urgency, pain, and even permanent bladder damage. Some people lose the ability to hold urine for more than a few minutes. In severe cases, the bladder may shrink and require surgical intervention.

This creates a difficult paradox: for some, ketamine relieves emotional suffering. But as tolerance builds, they need more frequent dosing—and the line between medicine and addiction gets blurry. Emotional relief is followed by physical damage.

Over the last few years high profile individuals have been reported abusing Ketamine. We see the same thing in our community members. We have some individuals where the use of Ketamine provided significant relief from their mental health conditions and other members have used so much they complain of significant bladder pain and frequent urination.

The real challenge is this: how do we help people use a healing tool without letting it become the next problem they need to heal from?

Ketamine, when used in small, controlled doses under medical supervision, can be a powerful tool for treating depression, PTSD, and chronic pain. But when used too frequently—or recreationally—it can take a serious toll on the body, especially the bladder.

Over time, high doses of ketamine can cause a condition known as ketamine-induced cystitis, which leads to inflammation, urgency, pain, and even permanent bladder damage. Some people lose the ability to hold urine for more than a few minutes. In severe cases, the bladder may shrink and require surgical intervention.

This creates a difficult paradox: for some, ketamine relieves emotional suffering. But as tolerance builds, they need more frequent dosing—and the line between medicine and addiction gets blurry. Emotional relief is followed by physical damage.

The real challenge is this: how do we help people use a healing tool without letting it become the next problem they need to heal from?

Ketamine, when used in small, controlled doses under medical supervision, can be a powerful tool for treating depression, PTSD, and chronic pain. But when used too frequently—or recreationally—it can take a serious toll on the body, especially the bladder.

Over time, high doses of ketamine can cause a condition known as ketamine-induced cystitis, which leads to inflammation, urgency, pain, and even permanent bladder damage. Some people lose the ability to hold urine for more than a few minutes. In severe cases, the bladder may shrink and require surgical intervention.

This creates a difficult paradox: for some, ketamine relieves emotional suffering. But as tolerance builds, they need more frequent dosing—and the line between medicine and addiction gets blurry. Emotional relief is followed by physical damage.

The real challenge is this: how do we help people use a healing tool without letting it become the next problem they need to heal from?