What is the Ketamine Screen (Urine) test?

The Ketamine Screen (Urine) is a toxicology test that detects the presence of ketamine and its metabolites in a urine sample. Ketamine is a dissociative anaesthetic that may be used medically but is also misused recreationally.

Urine testing is the preferred method for ketamine screening because ketamine and its metabolites are excreted through the kidneys and can be detected for a period after use. This test identifies recent exposure, rather than long-term historical use.

The test is commonly used in clinical toxicology, substance misuse assessment, workplace screening, and medico-legal investigations.

Why do I need a Ketamine Screen (Urine) test?

Ketamine use may cause physical, psychological and urinary tract complications. Screening helps identify exposure when symptoms, behavioural concerns or compliance requirements exist.

You may need a Ketamine urine test if you:

• Have suspected recreational drug use
• Experience unexplained neurological or psychological symptoms
• Are undergoing substance misuse assessment
• Require workplace or occupational drug screening
• Need medico-legal or compliance testing
• Have urinary symptoms linked to ketamine misuse
• Require confirmation of recent exposure

Symptoms associated with ketamine use may include:

• Confusion or dissociation
• Memory impairment
• Hallucinations
• Agitation or anxiety
• Bladder pain or urinary frequency
• Nausea or vomiting

Benefits of the Ketamine Screen (Urine) test

1. Detects recent ketamine use
   Identifies exposure within the detection window.
2. Non-invasive testing method
   Simple urine sample required.
3. Useful in toxicology assessment
   Supports clinical decision-making.
4. Applicable for workplace screening
   Meets occupational testing needs.
5. Supports substance misuse evaluation
   Helps guide intervention strategies.
6. Clinically recognised drug screen
   Used in healthcare and forensic settings.
7. Rapid laboratory processing
   Enables timely results.
8. Clear qualitative result
   Positive or negative reporting.

Step by step – how the test works

You can access Ketamine urine screening UK-wide through two options:

1. Clinic appointment
   Attend your nearest UK clinic to provide a supervised or unsupervised urine sample.
2. At-home testing
   Collect your urine sample at home using the provided kit and return it securely.

Samples are analysed in an accredited UK laboratory using validated toxicology methods.

Your results explained

Negative ketamine screen

No ketamine or metabolites detected above the laboratory cut-off.

Typical UK interpretation:

• Ketamine: Not detected

Positive ketamine screen

Ketamine or its metabolites detected, indicating recent use.

Typical UK interpretation:

• Ketamine: Detected

Important interpretation notes

Results reflect recent exposure only and should be interpreted in clinical or occupational context.