What is ketamine? Is it safe?

Ketamine is an unusual type of psychedelic drug - called a dissociative - that is undergoing a resurgence in popularity. Most recently ketamine has been approved for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) - which is severe depression that is not improved with typical antidepressant therapies.

Ketamine is widely viewed as safe, effective, and well-tolerated for most people (with the exception of individuals with uncontrolled high blood pressure, history of psychosis, or heart rhythm problems). It was first approved by the FDA for use as an anesthetic in the 1970s.
Low dose ketamine is considered safe when taken as prescribed by a medical provider. We strongly advise against the recreational use of ketamine since the strength and quality are uncertain and widely variable (it can be cut with a handful of substances)