Ketamine is a drug that has been used for over 50 years, traditionally as an anesthetic by anesthesia providers, emergency physicians and surgeons. In 1985, the World Health Organization added Ketamine to its list of essential medicines. In 1990’s, Yale University began studies on Ketamine and it’s use in psychiatry. In 2006, ketamine began being studied in its effects on treatment-resistant depression. A 2009 study of ketamine conducted by Price, Charney, Knock, and Matthew, showed a correlation between ketamine and the alleviation of depressive symptoms as well as a reduction in suicidal thoughts. Current studies are showing beneficial effects in other psychiatric disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and alcohol/substance abuse.
CONNECT