Medical ketamine treatments
In the Netherlands, ketamine is now used in various ways in medical care. The most well-known variant is the intravenous (IV) ketamine infusion, which is mainly used in pain clinics for chronic pain syndromes and sometimes for treatment-resistant depression. In addition, there is the nasal spray with esketamine (Spravato®), a registered drug that may be prescribed under strict conditions for severe depression when other treatments are insufficient. Both applications fall under conventional medicine, are performed in a controlled clinical setting, and require medical monitoring due to potential side effects such as increased blood pressure, dissociation, and nausea. Research is also underway with oral esketamine, but this form is not yet included in the basic health insurance package and falls under so-called "promising care.".
Ketamine analog therapy
In addition to the strict medical applications of ketamine, there is increasing interest in a therapeutically guided oral ketamine treatment with substances that are pharmacologically very similar to ketamine, but are not covered by the Medicines Act. These analogs activate the same receptors in the brain (particularly the NMDA and AMPA receptors) and, like ketamine, can temporarily loosen fixed thought and emotional structures. This offers psychological space for processing, insight, and behavioral change. While intravenous treatment often feels technical and clinical, an oral version can be more integrated within a holistic therapy program, which focuses on preparation, guidance during the session and integration of the experience afterwards.
When is ketamine administered through the hospital?
If someone is eligible for ketamine treatments through conventional healthcare, it's wise to pursue the medical route. In that case, treatment takes place under the supervision of a physician, with medical monitoring, and the care is (partially) reimbursed. Therefore, always try to check with your general practitioner or psychiatrist first whether you meet the indications for reimbursed treatments. However, if you are not eligible for these medical programs, or if a more therapeutic and experiential framework is desired, a guided session with a legal ketamine analogue can be a valuable alternative.
Why people choose a ketamine analog
Taking oral ketamine is as simple as taking some supplements and doesn't require an injection, which makes oral versions more accessible and easier to plan for many people. People also increasingly choose a ketamine analog with the support of our Triptherapie therapists because they often don't meet the strict medical requirements for participation, or because they have more confidence in our counselors' extensive experience working with psychedelic substances. Furthermore, many clients appreciate the holistic approach which goes beyond just treating symptoms. Triptherapie not only looks at the chemical effect of the substance, but also at body, mind, nutrition, breathing and mindset. This broad approach ensures that the experience with a ketamine analogue can not only provide relief from symptoms, but can also contribute to structural changes in consciousness, emotional processing and attitude to life.
Request a ketamine session
We accept clients who wish to use ketamine (analogues) non-medically and on their own initiative. It's best to avoid dangerous combinations with various medications and/or conditions. Complete the intake form without obligation so we can perform an initial assessment. Use the button below to schedule an intake.