Party drug ketamine could offer cure for alcoholism after slashing relapse rates by more than 50 per cent
It has already been touted as a potential cure for depression, with the ability to improve moods in hours
PARTY drug ketamine could be a cure for alcoholism after slashing relapse rates by more than 50 per cent in tests.
The horse tranquilliser, called Special K by clubbers, is to be used in a major trial funded by the Medical Research Council.
It has already been touted as a potential cure for depression, with the ability to improve moods in hours, rather than weeks like existing drugs do.
The trial will see nearly 100 heavy drinkers who want to quit given a low-dose jab of the Class B drug once a week for three weeks.
They will also receive 90 minutes of counselling a week.
Volunteers in the Exeter University study are being warned to expect minor disturbances to their vision and mild problems with hearing.
Recreational ketamine users say it creates a “floaty” feeling where mind and body feel detached.
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The MRC put up the cash after a pilot study found ketamine cut 12-month relapse rates in drinkers who quit from 76 per cent to just 34 per cent.
Research leader Professor Celia Morgan from Exeter University said: "Pilot studies suggest it could cut alcohol relapse rates by more than half.
"This trial will allow us to examine whether ketamine, combined with therapy, can indeed help people stay abstinent from alcohol."
And MRC spokeswoman Dr Kathryn Adcock said: "Current treatments for alcohol dependence are associated with high relapse rates -people often return to drinking after only a short time of abstinence.
"We are constantly looking for new ways to help change this pattern and we look forward to the results of this innovative trial."