Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Addiction: Mechanisms, Evidence, and Clinical Implications

Substance use disorders are difficult to treat due to their complex biological, psychological, and social roots and high relapse rates. Recent evidence suggests ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is a promising intervention for treatment-resistant addiction. This review examines ketamine's neurobiological mechanisms, how it works synergistically with psychotherapy, and clinical data supporting its effectiveness for various substance use disorders. It also addresses safety concerns and outlines practical considerations for integrating KAP into clinical practice.

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Abstract

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are notoriously difficult to treat due to complex biopsychosocial underpinnings and high relapse rates. Recent evidence positions ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) as a promising intervention for treatment-resistant addiction. This review explores ketamine’s neurobiological mechanisms, its synergistic effect with psychotherapy, and clinical data supporting its efficacy in various substance use disorders. Additionally, it addresses safety concerns and outlines practical considerations for integration into clinical practice.