A concerning trend has emerged in Australia, with high levels of the tranquilizer ketamine detected in wastewater samples from both city and rural areas. Experts are warning that the drug may be increasingly adulterated with dangerous substances as dealers attempt to meet the growing demand.
The latest National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program (NWDMP) report, conducted by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, analyzed samples from 59 sites in April and June. Legal drugs like alcohol and nicotine showed the highest concentrations, although their consumption has been gradually declining nationally over the past two years.
Nicotine use, in particular, was significantly higher in regional areas compared to capital cities, with elevated levels in Hobart and across the Northern Territory. Methylamphetamine use varied across the country, with some regional sites in South Australia, Western Australia, and Victoria showing notably higher consumption levels.
While current methylamphetamine use remains above long-term averages, it has not reached the levels seen before the COVID-19 pandemic. Cocaine consumption is highest in Sydney and other capital cities, although some regional sites in New South Wales and Queensland also recorded relatively high readings.
Despite a decrease in national cocaine consumption since December 2023, levels remain higher than pre-pandemic levels, indicating a potential long-term market expansion. MDMA use remained low, while cannabis use varied across the country, with higher rates in regional areas.
Record-low regional consumption of oxycodone and fentanyl was observed, while ketamine detection rates reached record highs in both capital cities and regional areas. The drug, once primarily obtained through theft from hospitals and veterinary clinics, is now more widely available.
Experts warn that the purity of ketamine in Australia is highly variable and often mixed with other dangerous substances. Analogs and nitazines have been detected in ketamine, increasing the risk of harmful effects and overdose. Long-term use can lead to psychological dependence, liver and brain damage, and bladder issues that may require surgery.
Individuals considering ketamine use are advised to utilize drug-checking services and have naloxone on hand to reverse potential opioid overdoses. Naloxone is available free of charge at select pharmacies in Australia.
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