To prescribe and administer therapeutic ketamine, a prescriber must fulfill specific requirements, which can vary depending on the country or region. In the United States, for example, the following criteria generally apply:
- Medical Licensure: The prescriber must have a valid medical license in their state of practice. This typically involves completing medical school, a residency program, and passing the necessary licensing exams.
- DEA Registration: The prescriber must have an active Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration, as ketamine is a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States. Registration requires an application and the payment of a fee.
- Training and Experience: It is highly recommended that the prescriber have specific training or experience in administering ketamine for therapeutic purposes. This may include continuing medical education (CME) courses, fellowships, or other specialized training in ketamine therapy.
- Adherence to Guidelines and Protocols: The prescriber should follow established guidelines and protocols for ketamine administration, such as those published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) or the American Society of Ketamine Physicians (ASKP).
- Patient Selection and Monitoring: The prescriber should carefully select patients who may benefit from ketamine therapy, ensuring they meet appropriate criteria and monitoring their progress and safety throughout treatment.
For specific information on regulations and requirements in your region, consult the relevant medical licensing board or professional association. Additionally, always consult local and national guidelines and protocols for administering ketamine.
American Psychiatric Association (APA). (2017). The American Psychiatric Association Practice Guideline for the Pharmacological Treatment of Patients With Alcohol Use Disorder. Retrieved from https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/pdf/10.1176/appi.books.9781615371969
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). (n.d.). Controlled Substance Schedules. Retrieved from https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/schedules/
American Society of Ketamine Physicians (ASKP). (n.d.). Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.askp.org/guidelines