UK clinic treats 13‑year‑olds with ketamine bladder damage

The National Health Service has opened the United Kingdom’s first and only clinic dedicated to treating children and adolescents with ketamine‑induced cystitis, a painful bladder condition that can arise from recreational use of the anesthetic drug. According to the doctors who run the service, the clinic is already seeing patients as young as 13 years old, a demographic that has previously had limited access to specialised care.

The clinic, located in the Midlands, offers a multidisciplinary approach that includes urology, pain management, and psychological support. Patients undergo a thorough diagnostic work‑up, including cystoscopy and imaging, before receiving a tailored treatment plan that may involve medication, bladder instillations, or, in severe cases, surgical intervention. The team reports that early intervention is key to preventing long‑term bladder damage and improving quality of life for affected youngsters.

By providing a focused, evidence‑based pathway, the new clinic addresses a growing public‑health concern and sets a precedent for other regions. Its establishment underscores the NHS’s commitment to tackling the health consequences of drug misuse among young people, while offering hope to families navigating this complex condition.