Unfortunately, we’re all too familiar with the tragic headlines:
- Matthew Perry, cause of death: ketamine overdose
- Michael Jackson, cause of death: propofol overdose
- Prince and Tom Petty, cause of death: fentanyl overdose
We can easily conclude from these stories that ketamine, propofol, and fentanyl are inherently dangerous substances. When used irresponsibly or in the wrong hands, they are dangerous. But as an anesthesiologist, I, and many other medical professionals, use these very same drugs safely on a regular basis as part of anesthesia care, pain management, or mental health treatment.
The key difference? How and where these substances are being used. The danger lies in the specific context and intent. A knife can be used as a simple kitchen utensil, or that same knife can be a murder weapon.
In some of the highly public overdose deaths, physicians handled drugs in a manner well beyond the standards of care and entered the realm of criminal behavior. Understandably, stories like these can lead the public to be anxious and hesitant about these drugs, regardless of the setting.
Public perception vs. clinical reality
During my career as an anesthesiologist working in the emergency room, I often had patients nervously ask things like, “Will you be giving me the Michael Jackson drug?” or “Do you have to use that fentanyl for my anesthesia?” These questions came from a place of fear and from a desire to understand. I was always happy to explain that these essential drugs would be used safely in a continuously monitored environment to reassure patients of their safety.
Today, with the emergence of ketamine as a powerful tool in the treatment of depression, PTSD, and other mental health conditions, I am sure that my colleagues will face similar questions about its use, especially given the stigma surrounding both psychedelics and mental illness.
Elon Musk is another high-profile individual whose use of ketamine has generated sensational media coverage. Unfortunately, these types of news stories can exacerbate the public’s misunderstanding of the drug. To his credit, Musk has stated that his ketamine use is medically prescribed to manage depression. However, some reports also suggest that he may be taking larger doses for nontherapeutic purposes, possibly in unsupervised settings, in combination with other psychoactive substances.
The therapeutic promise of ketamine
If these reports are accurate, it’s important not to conflate the risks of recreational use or misuse with the evidence-based benefits of therapeutic ketamine treatment. A growing body of scientific research supports the use of ketamine, particularly low-dose, medically supervised ketamine, as an effective intervention for treatment-resistant depression. Clinical studies have shown that when administered under the care of trained professionals, ketamine can promote neuroplasticity, reduce suicidal ideation, and catalyze meaningful psychological breakthroughs.
This distinction matters. The potential harms of misuse shouldn’t overshadow the legitimate and life-changing outcomes ketamine can offer in a clinical setting with appropriate dosage and professional oversight. When used responsibly, it’s a powerful tool for healing.
A personal journey to healing
Ketamine therapy has been remarkably effective for me personally under the care of the skilled professionals at a specialized medical center. The therapy has given me a new perspective on myself and has had a profound positive impact on my life.
“We can all see the moon, but not its dark side, which is just as much a part of it as the side bathed in light.”
Sometimes healing requires us to shift our perspective to see what was there the entire time but hidden from view. If you are struggling, I encourage you to explore that other side and perhaps find a new healthier version of yourself emerging.
See yourself in a new light. And I’ll see you on the dark side of the moon.
Jim Ellwood is an anesthesiologist.
