Ketamine

Ketamine is an NMDA antagonist which works on a different neurotransmitter, compared to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It stimulates brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) production. Some people think of BDNF like Miracle Grow – a “fertilizer for the brain.” BDNF boosts results in the growth of new brain cells and better brain cell connections.

Ketamine’s effect is dependent on how you’re using it. Dosage matters, as does whether it’s injected in the vein or in the muscle, taken by mouth, or taken intranasally.

Low dose sessions may involve mild dissociation, relaxation, mindfulness, lowered defenses, anxiety relief, empathogenic effects, as well as anti-depressant effects. Moderate dose sessions may involve moderate dissociation, out of body experiences, and an expansive sense of self. High dose sessions may involve full dissociation from body and various transpersonal and mystical experiences.

Through Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), high doses are used to induce a non-ordinary state of consciousness, provoking a person to experience major shifts of perceptions in many ways similar to classical psychedelics. Mystical-type experiences and feelings of ego dissolution are common for high-dose sessions. These effects can be extremely negative if a person is not well-prepared and supported both during and after the experience.

Either immediately after the effects of ketamine dissipate, and/or in the days/weeks to following, a person undergoes a course of counseling or psychotherapy to examine the experience and emotions within the framework of their personal goals. The psychotherapeutic process aims to stabilize positive behavioral changes, consolidate psychological material, resolve psychological issues, improve relationships, catalyze new insights, and enhance self-awareness.

While still under research, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is presumed to amplify the neurobiological properties of ketamine by addressing underlying psychological issues and bolstering transformational healing.

Multiple clinical trials have shown ketamine’s profound ability to treat depression, anxiety, and PTSD. It is shorter-acting and more predictable than other psychedelics.

Common side effects include lightheadedness, dizziness, blurred vision, or inability to think clearly. Avoid driving or other tasks/activities that require alertness or clear vision. In some cases, patients experienced nausea or vomiting, headaches, hallucinations, elevated blood pressure, transient muscle shaking, and increased risk of a bladder infection.

The number of sessions in your treatment plan depends on your expectations and the severity of your condition. Some people experience mood improvement from 1-3 sessions. Research shows up to 6 sessions may be optimal for long-lasting effect. Most people need to have a booster session every 3-6 months.

Ketamine is not for everyone. To ensure both safety and effectiveness, it must be carefull dosed, properly administered, and carried out in an enviroment conducive for therapy. You will need to have ongoing psychological support both during and after KAP.

Ketamine is a Schedule III drug, which means it is approved for medical and clinical use, and requires a prescription. Drugs are classified as Schedule III if they are designed for medical use but have a risk of dependence. In the case of ketamine, the risk of physical dependence is low to medium. However, the risk of developing psychological dependence is very high.

A thorough screening is essential on both the psychological and physical level to determine if ketamine is a fit for any individual. The following conditions are disqualifying:

1. You are not ready to do the deep healing work.
2. Pregnant women and/or nursing mothers.
3. Poorly controlled or untreated hypertension and other cardiovascular problems.
4. Poorly controlled or untreated hyperthyroidism.
5. Acute mania/Hypomania.
6. A history of psychosis or schizophrenia.
7. An existing allergy to ketamine or past addiction to ketamine.
8. A recent traumatic brain injury.
9. Severe obstructive sleep apnea or respiratory disease.
10. Obesity.
11. An ongoing substance abuse disorder or addiction.
12. History of bladder infections or cystitis.