Ketamine Reclassification Looms: Home Office Considers Upgrading to Class A Drug
The use of ketamine as a party drug has surged to record levels, prompting the Home Office to consider reclassifying it as a Class A drug. As a result, penalties for possessing and taking ketamine could increase significantly. Home Office ministers have consulted an expert panel to assess the potential risks and benefits of upgrading ketamine's classification. If the proposal is approved, ketamine would join the likes of heroin and cocaine as a Class A substance, carrying stricter penalties for users and dealers. The move aims to curb the growing concern of ketamine misuse, particularly among young people. With the rise of substance abuse and addiction, the UK government is under pressure to take decisive action. As the expert panel reviews the evidence, the fate of ketamine's classification hangs in the balance. The decision could have far-reaching implications for users, dealers, and the wider community, highlighting the need for effective drug education and awareness programmes to combat the growing problem of recreational drug use, including the misuse of Class A drugs and party drugs like ketamine.