Ketamine assisted therapy has gained significant attention in recent years, especially for its potential in treating mental health conditions like depression and PTSD. However, a common misconception persists: that ketamine therapy is illegal. Let’s set the record straight for both the US and Israel.
Understanding Ketamine’s Legal Status
Ketamine is a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States, meaning it has accepted medical uses but also potential for abuse. The FDA first approved ketamine in 1970 as an anesthetic for diagnostic and surgical procedures. Since then, it has been widely used in hospitals and clinics for both human and veterinary medicine.
Although ketamine is not FDA-approved specifically for mental health treatment, it is frequently prescribed off-label for conditions such as treatment-resistant depression and chronic pain. Off-label prescribing is a legal and common medical practice where doctors prescribe a medication for a condition other than its officially approved use. However, it remains illegal to possess or use ketamine without a valid prescription.
Ketamine Therapy in Israel
In Israel, ketamine is also a controlled substance, legally available for medical and veterinary use when prescribed by licensed professionals. It has been employed in treating various conditions, particularly PTSD and depression, especially when standard treatments have failed. Ketamine’s use for psychiatric disorders remains off-label and requires individual authorization from the Ministry of Health which means each client of Keter Health has legal approval for their ketamine assisted therapy.
The Importance of Medical Supervision
While ketamine therapy is legally available under proper medical guidance, recreational use remains illegal worldwide due to its potential for abuse and dependency. This legal framework highlights the importance of medical supervision when using ketamine therapeutically.
When administered under the care of a qualified medical professional, ketamine therapy has been shown to be both effective and safe. The primary factor distinguishing safe use from potential misuse is the presence of an experienced provider ensuring correct dosing and monitoring. At our centrally located Jerusalem clinic in Israel, Dr. Isaac Nagel, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist, provides ketamine infusion therapy in a controlled and secure environment.
Dr. Nagel states, “When properly monitored, ketamine is an invaluable tool for mental health treatment. Its benefits can be significant, but patient safety always comes first, which is why careful oversight and individualized treatment plans are essential.”
Are You Considering Ketamine-Assisted Therapy?
If you’re exploring ketamine therapy as a treatment option for depression, PTSDsymptoms, at Keter Health, we provide a safe, monitored environment where you can experience the potential benefits of ketamine therapy under expert supervision.
Take the first step toward healing today—contact Keter Health to schedule a consultation and learn more about how ketamine therapy may help you.