By Storm Newton

Copyright independent

The Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) has endorsed ketamine-based medication for treating depression in clinical settings.

RCPsych recommends the use of ketamine in specialist settings with appropriate oversight, citing strong evidence for its efficacy in rapidly relieving depressive symptoms.

The college urges more research into other psychedelic drugs but warns against claims “jumping ahead of the evidence” and prioritising “hype” over good clinical practice.

Experts highlight the vital need for new mental health treatments, noting a significant development gap compared to other medical fields.

RCPsych stresses that any psychedelic-assisted therapy must be conducted in controlled clinical settings with properly trained staff to ensure patient safety and effective outcomes.