France Warning _ Ketamine : Risk of prolonged use leads to severe liver and uro-nephrological damage
The ANSM is reminding health-care professionals by issuing a Direct Health-care Professional Communication (DHPC) that there is an increase in the number of hepatobiliary (cholestasis or cholangitis) and uro-nephrological (non-infectious cystitis, interstitial cystitis, acute renal failure, hydronephrosis), most often serious, after prolonged or repeated use of ketamine. Ketamine is a narcotic whose prescription is limited to 28 days.
The ANSM reminded health-care professional to respect the recommended dosages of ketamine and to limit exposure over time, and monitor liver function, renal function and urinary cytology closely if taken repeatedly or over prolonged time.
Reference: Security information, ANSM, 30 August 2023 (link to the source within ansm.sante.fr)
WHO Pharmaceuticals Newsletter No. 1, 2024. p10 ; Geneva: World Health Organization; 2024.
