why is ketamine more accessible than psilocybin in a therapeutic setting?

Both ketamine therapy and psilocybin therapy are emerging treatment options for various mental health conditions, and their accessibility varied widely depending on several factors. The accessibility of these therapies can change over time, and regulatory landscapes may evolve as more research is conducted and public attitudes shift. Here are some reasons why ketamine therapy may have been more accessible than psilocybin therapy:

Legal status:

1. Ketamine is an FDA-approved medication for various purposes, including anesthesia and pain management. It is legally available and can be administered by medical professionals in clinical settings. In contrast, psilocybin, which is found in certain mushrooms (often referred to as "magic mushrooms"), is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States and many other countries, making it illegal for most uses, including medical treatment. Psilocybin therapy has been undergoing clinical trials for various mental health conditions, but it has not received widespread approval or legalization.

   Research and regulation:

   Ketamine has been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits for several years, leading to more established clinical protocols and guidelines for its use. The FDA has approved ketamine-based treatments for depression and suicidal ideation, leading to greater acceptance and accessibility in certain medical settings. Psilocybin therapy is still in the early stages of clinical research and regulatory approval, which can limit its availability.

   Clinician training:

   Medical professionals & therapists can receive training in the administration of ketamine for mental health purposes, leading to an increase in the number of clinics offering ketamine-assisted therapy. The same training programs are not yet as widely available for psilocybin therapy.

   Duration

   The duration of ketamine is generally limited to 30-90 minutes which makes it much more appealing in a therapeutic setting. Psilocybin can last several hours so if administered in a comparable setting would require much longer monitoring and supervision. The cost of monitoring a client for 6 hours versus 2 is burdensome.

   Cultural and historical factors:

   Ketamine has a long history of medical use, whereas psilocybin has been associated with recreational use and is subject to greater legal and cultural stigmatization. This can affect public perception, research funding, and regulatory decisions regarding these therapies.