A Message from Our Founders: Addressing Misconceptions About Ketamine Therapy in the Media

Recent media on Elon Musk’s ketamine use has helped spread misconceptions about ketamine. Our co-founders, Drs. Cheryl and Haviva Malina, respond about the life-saving power of ketamine, while stressing the importance of proper medical oversight.

Dear Patients, 

At Keta Medical Center, we are committed to providing safe, medically supervised ketamine treatments that offer hope and healing for individuals struggling with depression, PTSD, and other mental health conditions. 

Recently, media coverage surrounding Elon Musk’s ketamine use has sparked widespread discussions about this therapy—unfortunately, with many misconceptions and misunderstandings.

We want to take a moment to clarify key points and reinforce the importance of receiving ketamine therapy in a professional medical setting.

Medical Supervision is Essential

One of the most concerning aspects of the recent media discourse is the implication that ketamine use is a casual or recreational activity. While Musk has openly discussed using ketamine to manage his mental health, it is important for everyone to consider and prioritize the crucial role of proper medical oversight. Ketamine is a powerful medication with therapeutic benefits, but it must be administered in a controlled environment under the supervision of trained medical professionals. 

At Keta Medical Center, we follow strict protocols to ensure patient safety. Every treatment is carefully monitored by a physician, with personalized dosing tailored to each patient’s needs. Unlike unregulated or unsupervised use, clinical ketamine therapy is guided by medical research and evidence-based protocols. 

Additionally, we recognize that ketamine therapy is most effective when combined with talk therapy. Our clinic offers integrative mental health care, pairing ketamine treatments with professional therapy sessions to help patients process their experiences and achieve long-term benefits. This comprehensive approach ensures that ketamine is not just a temporary relief but a transformative part of a broader mental health strategy.

Dosing and Context Matter

Many headlines have focused on Musk’s ketamine use without addressing the significant difference between supervised clinical treatment and personal, unmonitored use. In a clinical setting, ketamine is administered in carefully measured doses that can induce transient dissociation monitored by a doctor and a nurse. The goal is therapeutic relief, not intoxication. 

Ketamine has been shown to be 70% effective in treating treatment-resistant depression, often providing rapid relief within hours by acting on the brain’s glutamate system rather than serotonin. It enhances neuroplasticity, ‘rewiring’ neural pathways to promote long-term resilience. Studies show its benefits can be sustained for years with proper maintenance, particularly when combined with psychotherapy and lifestyle interventions. 

Recent press has raised concerns about ketamine’s effects on cognition. While excessive use can impact productivity, controlled medical treatment has been shown to improve cognitive function by restoring neural connectivity. Short-term effects, such as mild dissociation, wear off within hours, and long-term monitored use does not impair cognition. When used improperly or in excessive amounts outside of a medical setting, ketamine can pose risks. That’s why we emphasize the importance of professional assessment, structured treatment plans, and follow-up care to ensure both safety and effectiveness.

Ketamine Therapy is a Legitimate Mental Health Treatment

Despite the tone of some media reports, ketamine therapy is not a fringe or experimental treatment—it is a well-researched, FDA-approved approach to mental health care when administered in appropriate medical contexts. Clinical studies have demonstrated ketamine’s ability to provide rapid relief for treatment-resistant depression, and it has been increasingly recognized as a breakthrough therapy for individuals who have not responded to traditional medications. 

Our Commitment to Safe, Effective Treatment

We take our responsibility to our patients seriously. Our mission is to provide safe, compassionate, and scientifically backed ketamine therapy in a monitored, supportive environment. We encourage anyone considering this treatment to seek out reputable medical professionals and avoid unregulated or at-home use. 

If you have any questions or concerns about ketamine therapy, we’re here to help.

Sincerely,
Dr. Haviva Malina & Dr. Cheryl Malina
Medical Directors and Founders, Keta Medical Center

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. We encourage you to discuss any treatment options with your doctor or mental health provider to fully understand the potential risks and benefits. If you are in immediate danger, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, dial 911, or visit your nearest emergency room.

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