What Is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic with psychedelic properties, initially used for anesthesia. Acting as an NMDA receptor antagonist, it induces altered perception and dissociation. Beyond its anesthetic use, ketamine is being explored for its rapid-acting antidepressant effects in treating conditions like depression and PTSD as one of the first legal psychedelics in Canada.

Anaesthetic

Long before its recent emergence as a psychedelic therapy, ketamine has been used safely and effectively to treat a variety of health conditions. It is an incredibly versatile drug that has been used during surgeries, medical and dental procedures on both adults and children, as well as by paramedics and soldiers in the field. It is also used to treat chronic pain and is sometimes prescribed as a short-term treatment for depression and anxiety and other mental health conditions.

Set & Setting

When using ketamine in a therapeutic context, it is important to create a safe and comfortable environment. This means ensuring that the space is quiet, warm, and free of any potential distractions. It is also important to have a supportive atmosphere, so having a therapist, doctor or someone you trust with skills in holding space present to provide emotional support is highly recommended. Many people are familiar with ketamine in a recreational setting but when you shift this setting, the experience itself can change drastically.

The Self Remains

One of the most important distinctions between ketamine and other psychedelics is the way it minimally impacts one’s sense of self. Unlike the often destabilizing effects of traditional psychedelics, ketamine allows users to traverse outer worldly and out-of-body landscapes while one’s sense of self remains steady and intact. The everyday witness gets to come along for the ride.

Medical Access

Overall ketamine has fewer, less intense and shorter lasting side effects compared to other psychedelics, making it an attractive option for those looking to explore psychedelic therapies. Ketamine is also appealing as a treatment for mental health because it is fast-acting and has a short duration, making it more suitable for therapeutic settings where a quick and controlled experience is desired.