Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for methamphetamine use disorder (KAPPA)

Summary

This study aims to investigate the safety and feasibility of subanaesthetic ketamine in combination with psychotherapy (ketamine-assisted psychotherapy) for methamphetamine use disorder. We will recruit 20 adults who are seeking to reduce or cease methamphetamine use from a specialist outpatient stimulant treatment service in Sydney (St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney). A four-week course of three subcutaneous ketamine doses (0.75mg/kg to 0.9mg/kg, depending on tolerability) at weekly intervals and four sessions of cognitive behavioural therapy (within 24-28 hours of each ketamine administration session) will be delivered. There will be three follow-up visits (Week 8, 12 and 24) to assess outcomes. The primary outcome is to investigate safety and feasibility; other outcomes assessed are changes in methamphetamine use, cravings and withdrawal, quality of life, and treatment satisfaction.