Health services in Cardiff and the Vale have seen a big increase in the number of people getting support for ketamine-related problems.
Figures published by the local health board suggest a 53% rise in ketamine presentations since September 2024.
In the past year, a dedicated addictions unit in the region has also been in contact with 73 people who use the drug more than once a week - up by 60% compared to pre-2024.
It comes as UK Government experts decided against reclassifying ketamine as a Class A drug, after figures revealed the number of fatalities - though relatively rare - increased by more than tenfold in a decade.
The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs said on Wednesday it recommended the drug should retain its class B status, although it noted it was "by no means a unanimous decision".
Now, the Welsh Government says a new programme is being developed to help ketamine users get earlier treatment.
The Mental Health Minister visited the Barry offices of CAVDAS (Cardiff and Vale Drug and Alcohol Services) to learn more about their work in early intervention and prevention.
She said: "We are seeing the devastating effects of continued use of ketamine and need to make young people aware of the dangers of using this drug."
"I'm glad to see the efforts being made by Cardiff and Vale to provide early screening, awareness raising with school children and treatment when needed as part of their ketamine care pathway."
"We are working with area planning boards (APBs) across Wales to ensure best practice is shared and our substance misuse agenda supports those most in need."
Using ketamine can cause severe and irreversible damage to the bladder and kidneys - altough new tools are been used to identify problems earlier with staff better equipped to support those with complex needs.
Over the past year, a new pathway scheme has been developed by local agencies in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.
One particular focus is on young people - with a new schools programme aimed at Year 9 and 10 pupils co-designed by people who have lived through the experience of ketamine-releated health problems.
Plans are also in place to provide dedicated support for under 18s via mental health services, as well as stronger links with urology specialists.
Around £3.2 million is being provided to support treatment services in the region through the Substance Misuse Action Fund, which also supports intervention techniques such as ketamine-specific grab bags.
Dr Claire Benyon, chair of the Cardiff and Vale area planning board, said: "We were delighted to welcome the minister...to highlight the valuable work underway across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan to support local people."
"As a partnership we will continue to build on this multi-agency work on ketamine to identify need earlier, prevent harm, and improve support services."
"The visit was an important opportunity for us to demonstrate our shared commitment to developing and strengthening joined up preventative and treatment approaches for all people affected by substance use in our communities."
APBs are made up of local councils, health boards, police and third sector groups dealing with susbtance misuse - with similiar initiatives being introduced across Wales to raise awareness about the dangers of the drug.
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