Last reviewed
Recreational ketamine: bladder damage, dependence and mental health
How party ketamine (K) differs from medical ketamine treatment, the bladder and dependence risks of regular use, and getting help.
Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Wellthy Psychiatry & Wellness
✓ Medically reviewed by Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Photos are illustrative and don’t show actual patients.
Ketamine is a medical anesthetic that’s also used recreationally as K or Special K. It’s worth knowing how party use differs from the supervised ketamine treatments used for depression.
Medical versus recreational ketamine
In clinical care, ketamine or esketamine (Spravato) is given at measured doses with monitoring, usually for depression that hasn’t responded to other treatments. Street ketamine has no dose control, may be cut with other substances, and is often used frequently and in large amounts.
Effects and the K-hole
Ketamine causes dissociation, a dreamlike, detached feeling. At higher doses, people may be unable to move or speak, which raises the risk of accidents, choking and assault.
Bladder damage
Frequent use can seriously damage the bladder, causing pain, urgency, frequent urination and blood in the urine. Stopping early gives the best chance of recovery, while ongoing use can lead to permanent damage.
Dependence and mental health
Tolerance builds quickly, and some people move to daily use. Regular use is linked to memory problems, low mood and anxiety, along with severe stomach pain sometimes called K-cramps.
Getting help
If you’re struggling to cut back, an affirming provider can help you make a plan. When medical treatment for depression makes sense, Wellthy Psychiatry also offers referrals to trusted ketamine and TMS clinics.
A gentle next step
Wellthy Psychiatry offers judgment-free, LGBTQ+ affirming care by telehealth across California. A free 15-minute phone consult is an easy way to see if we’re a good fit.
This article is for general education and isn’t medical advice. If you’re in crisis, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.
About the author
Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner · UCSF-trained · Founder of Wellthy Psychiatry & Wellness
Earl provides LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent-affirming psychiatric care, blending medication management, therapy and whole-person approaches. His background includes inpatient psychiatry and community mental health at Glenn County Behavioral Health and Equity Health, a federally qualified health center. He sees clients in San Francisco and by telehealth across California.
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