Micheal Pollan’s new book, “How to Change You Mind,” marks a new chapter in the evolution of psychiatry, and a particular area of interest for us here.
Indeed very promising work is being conducted at NYU, John’s Hopkins, and the VA system, where psychedelics are being used to markedly reduce depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more generally help people once again appreciate the miracles that surround us each day. While psychedelics will require some time for further trials to confirm their efficacy, the data thus far is strong, and the effects lasting; a “cure,” in some instances.
Ketamine has long been used in children, soldiers, and most recently, the successful rescue of a soccer team trapped in an underwater Thai cave. While not a true psychedelic, ketamine has a long and safe track record as an anesthetic, owing to its minimal effects on heart beat, breathing and blood pressure, which is why it is so often used in urgent situations in the field. In our work, we often use 1/4 of the dose needed for anesthesia, adding even further safety benefits.