REWRITING DRINKING CUES!

Wait! WHAT?

Ketamine for Addiction as a Psychedelic Treatment Option

By far, the most studied psychedelic agent is ketamine which, in much higher doses, has been used as an anesthetic agent safely for many decades. Ketamine at lower doses temporarily modifies consciousness, causing changes in mood, anxiety levels and thought patterns.  

​In over 70 Phase 2 and 3 clinical trials for psychiatric disorders, Ketamine has been studied and given as single or repeated administrations in varying doses and by various routes of delivery. Most has been for depressive disorders, but ketamine has also shown to be effective for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicidality, eating disorders and addictions, including alcohol, opioid, and nicotine dependence. Psychedelic-assisted therapy has also shown promise as a treatment for end-of-life distress and fear of death related to a terminal illness.

When looking forward to hopeful and higher recovery rates and remission from substance use disorders, as we know, tackling deeply ingrained addictive behavior patterns requires support, wellness, healthy environments, determination, introspection, and a desire to change and grow. It is an internal choice that cannot be forced. Talk therapy, 12-step programs or other interventions can be and are important yet often not enough to achieve long-lasting recovery and positive change. Working with Physicians and providers who specialize in addiction medicine is often a missing link along with the needed psychedelic modalities on the horizon.

An interesting aspect about Ketamine, is it overrides the part of the brain that controls habitual behavior, allowing access to the subconscious, where core issues lie. This helps to disrupt unwanted behaviors patterns and sets the stage for lasting change. Ketamine also weakens addiction triggers for alcohol and drug cravings which are often associated with environmental cues.

Long-term problematic substance use is often a symptom of underlying depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Often, trauma is the gateway drug so to speak. By treating hidden mood disorders and processing stored adverse events, many people reduce or eliminate their problematic alcohol or drug use. Once the mood improves and the trauma is processed, the “need” to consume a substance, including binge eating or other unhealthy choices including drinks or drugs dissipates.