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Ketamine is truly a breakthrough treatment, particularly for treatment-resistant depression. No other medication has offered such success in quite a long time. Doctors, researchers, and psychotherapists have widely different perspectives on its actual success. Some report that 83% of patients see a reduction in symptoms after acute treatment (roughly six IV sessions). Others suggest that up to 50% experience significant relief after just one hour. Tracking these results is extremely complicated, as everyone’s psychological picture is unique. Also, when it comes to treating depression, success looks different for each person. However, we can all agree that the medicine works. The real question now is: Is ketamine safe?
Where’s the Danger?
The primary concern with ketamine treatment is the risk of abuse. Since most ketamine treatments are administered at a doctor’s office, abuse is not possible—even if someone wanted to. You attend a session, and the doctor administers it. There’s no take-home medication. So, what’s the problem? If someone has a history of addiction or a propensity for it, they may find themselves enjoying the feeling of ketamine so much that they seek it out illegally.
The Risk of Abuse is Low—So Far.
Generally speaking, we are not seeing widespread ketamine abuse. There isn’t a trend of patients transitioning from receiving ketamine treatment from a doctor to obtaining it illegally. But it can happen. This is exactly what happened to Matthew Perry. Perry allegedly sought ketamine treatment for depression but quickly began abusing the drug. After being turned away from legitimate clinics, he eventually sought ketamine illegally—and it killed him. While what happened to Perry is tragic, it’s important not to make the exception the rule.
Who Shouldn’t Use Ketamine Therapy
Anyone with an extensive history of chronic drug addiction is a risky candidate for ketamine therapy. Why? While ketamine may help with depression, it can also trigger addictive behaviors. However, this doesn’t mean that people in recovery cannot benefit from ketamine therapy. The doctor must be very discerning, carefully assessing the patient’s sobriety stability. Ensure the patient has several years of sobriety, is actively involved in a 12-step recovery community, and is committed to maintaining their sobriety.
The Conclusion
Every treatment comes with some risk. There’s always a cost-benefit analysis. Since ketamine has a long history as a recreational club drug, there will likely always be some controversy associated with it—and that’s fine. Every breakthrough in medicine and psychotherapy has been met with concern. As with any modality, you need to work with a provider individually to weigh what the pros and cons would be for you specifically. If you’re curious about my integration work using ketamine assisted psychotherapy, you can schedule a consultation with me to learn more.
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