Ketamine was first synthesised in the 1960s and used as an anesthetic drug with dissociative properties. Nowadays, it’s used in medical purposes during Ketamine Therapy and for recreational use. The two uses are vastly different, and here is why.
How Ketamine Works
Ketamine works by blocking the NMDA receptors in the brain, causing a surge of glutamate. This action is responsible for better mood regulation, increased neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to form new connections), and reduction of negative thought patterns, co-occurring with various mental health disorders. People who use recreational ketamine claim it has euphoric effects with mild or intense hallucinogenic effects, depending on the dose.
Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine Therapy is a transformative treatment option for people struggling with various mental health challenges, with its rapid onset of effects and symptom relief. The medicine is administered intramuscularly (IM), intranasally (IV), or nasally. IM is the preferred way of administration due to fewer side effects. A typical Ketamine Therapy session consists of three common phases, including:
- Preparation phase: Doing breathwork, grounding exercises, and meditations led by a trusted Guide to prepare the patient before the treatment.
- Medication phase: A dose of ketamine is injected into the large muscle of the shoulder by a medical professional.
- Integration phase: Patients receive emotional and grounding support after the session, which promotes integration of the therapeutic insights. The integration phase can include journaling, art therapy, mindfulness, and meditation.
Different Ketamine Therapy Services
Medical-grade ketamine is used in a variety of treatments that offer different administration methods and guidance levels, depending on the patient’s preference. Some of the Ketamine Therapy services include:
Guided Ketamine Therapy: A one-on-one treatment with extensive preparation and integration phases led by a compassionate Guide of choice. Ketamine is administered intramuscularly (IM) by injecting it into the large muscle of the shoulder.
Semi-Guided Ketamine Therapy: A balanced treatment with limited preparation and integration, led by a trusted Guide. Ketamine is administered intramuscularly (IM) or intravenously (IV).
IV Ketamine Infusions: A ketamine treatment administered intravenously (IV), with similar elements of Semi-Guided Therapy.
Couples Ketamine Therapy: For couples seeking to heal from shared or individual mental health struggles in a safe environment with their partner. Ketamine is administered intramuscularly (IM) by injecting it into the large muscle of the shoulder.
Group Ketamine Therapy: For those seeking healing and support in a group setting with up to 6 patients. Ketamine is administered intramuscularly (IM) by injecting it into the large muscle of the shoulder.
Spravato Treatment (Esketamine): An FDA-approved nasal spray, self-administered under strict medical monitoring. The treatment is sprayed into the nose 2-3 times, each spaced five minutes apart.
Benefits of Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine Therapy is becoming a well-recognized treatment option for individuals dealing with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) who haven’t found relief with traditional antidepressants. Due to its fast-acting effects, many patients experience a reduction of symptoms within hours or days of the session. Ketamine Therapy can also help people with other mental health conditions, such as:
- Anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Eating disorders
- Chronic pain and headaches
- Substance use disorders
- Hospice and palliative care needs
- Personal growth and healing
Medical Observation and Safety
Ketamine Therapy is conducted in a clinical setting by board-certified professionals, ensuring the safety and efficacy of each session. All ketamine treatments are medically supervised and controlled to minimize risks. Deep emotional healing is possible when the patient feels safe and open to receiving help, which can be achieved by setting the right intentions before the treatment with the help of a trusted Guide.
Recreational Ketamine Use
Depending on the jurisdiction, recreational ketamine holds a questionable legal status without a proper medical authorization. Due to its dissociative properties, ketamine is best used in a medical setting with licensed professionals and strict supervision. A person can obtain unregulated ketamine by accident or unsupervised use of higher doses, which increases the risks of addiction or physical and cognitive impairment.
Medical vs Recreational Ketamine: A Comparative Overview
When comparing medical and recreational ketamine, the purpose of use is not the only difference. To better understand the two, here is a comparative view of the key aspects of both medical and recreational ketamine.
| Ketamine | Medical | Recreational |
| Type | Pharmaceutical-grade | Street ketamine |
| Purpose of Use | For reducing the symptoms of depression, pain management | Dissociation, euphoria (party drug) |
| Dosage | Percise dose | Unregulated dose |
| Administration | IM, IV, nasally (by nasal spray) | Orally, nasally (snorted), injected |
| Effects | Better mood regulation, pain relief, and reduction of negative thought patterns | Euphoria, hallucinations |
| Side Effects | Nausea, high blood pressure, lightheadedness, headaches | Nausea and vomiting, light-headedness, increased blood pressure and heart rate, increased risk of addiction |
| Cost | High-end | Depending on the location/market |
Healing is Possible With the Right Treatment
If you are struggling with specific mental health conditions that require personalized treatment plans, learn more about Ketamine Therapy at Kadelyx Health and how it can support your path to healing.
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