CDC

Ketamine detected in increasing number of overdose deaths

November 14, 2024

Ketamine, increasingly used for treatment-resistant depression, has been detected in a growing number of drug overdose deaths from July 2019 to June 2023. While it accounted for less than 1% of total overdose fatalities, the number of deaths with ketamine present rose from 47 (0.3%) to 107 (0.5%) during this timeframe. Notably, 82% of these cases involved other substances, predominantly illegally manufactured fentanyls, methamphetamine, or cocaine, highlighting a concerning trend of polysubstance use.

These findings underscore the need for further investigation into ketamine’s specific role in overdose incidents, particularly in the context of concurrent substance use. As ketamine’s application in depression treatment expands, understanding its potential interactions and risks in overdose situations is vital for public health and clinical practice. Ongoing monitoring and research are essential to address these emerging challenges effectively.

Source:

CDC. (2024, November 7). Notes from the Field: Ketamine Detection and Involvement in Drug Overdose Deaths — United States, July 2019–June 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7344a4.htm