Ketamine in therapy: how does it work?
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic synthesized in 1962 that has become a key compound in modern mental health research. Acting primarily as a non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist, ketamine increases glutamate signaling, promotes synaptogenesis, and enhances neuroplasticity. It also interacts with opioid, serotonergic, muscarinic, and adrenergic receptors, and increases BDNF expression. These combined mechanisms help explain its rapid antidepressant effects, while ongoing research continues to clarify why some patients respond and others do not, and how dosage and context influence therapeutic outcomes.
Addiction in our society
Addiction is a complex condition influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors, often associated with high relapse rates despite available treatments. Research shows that ketamine may offer a novel therapeutic approach by enhancing neuroplasticity, increasing BDNF expression, and reducing comorbid symptoms such as depression and anxiety. Evidence suggests ketamine-assisted interventions can increase periods of abstinence in alcohol and other substance addictions, facilitate psychological therapies, and promote cognitive flexibility. Although results are promising, further research is needed to define protocols, long-term outcomes, and appropriate clinical indications.
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for post traumatic stress disorder
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) involves intrusive memories, hyperarousal, dissociation, avoidance, and high comorbidity with depression, anxiety, and substance use. Standard treatments combine psychotherapy and antidepressants, yet remission rates remain low. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is emerging as a promising adjunct, targeting glutamatergic dysfunction, enhancing neural connectivity, and enabling therapeutic processing of traumatic memories from altered states of consciousness. Clinical studies show rapid symptom reduction after ketamine infusions, though effects may be transient and protocols require optimization. Careful screening is essential, as recent trauma may represent a contraindication.
Ketamine and depression: the first days of treatment
Depression is a complex disorder affecting mood, cognition, and physical health, and is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Standard treatment combines antidepressant medication and psychotherapy, yet around one third of patients do not respond adequately. This has driven interest in alternatives such as ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic with rapid antidepressant effects. Clinical trials and meta-analyses show symptom improvement within hours and remission in some patients. Ketamine is generally well tolerated and most effective when combined with psychotherapeutic support and careful medical supervision.