Intro
Welcome, athletes! Coach Blue Robinson here with another powerful episode of the Addict to Athlete Podcast. Today, we’re thrilled to welcome back Dr. B—addiction medicine specialist, educator, and the voice behind Dr. B360. This episode dives deep into ketamine therapy, its use in mental health and addiction recovery, and the broader implications of alternative treatments.
Dr. B is a former academic emergency medicine physician from the University of California who has treated over 100,000 patients. He transitioned from critical care and trauma into addiction medicine and now runs Dr. B360—a platform delivering education on recovery, psychiatry, and holistic wellness.
Why Ketamine?
Once used in emergency settings, ketamine is now emerging as a potential treatment for depression and trauma.
It is a dissociative anesthetic and chemically related to PCP.
Blocks NMDA receptors, targeting perception of pain rather than pain itself.
History and Medical Use
Originally developed to replace PCP.
Used frequently in pediatric emergency care due to minimal airway interference.
Has potential in chronic pain management by preventing opioid-induced hyperalgesia.
Ketamine for Depression
FDA-approved only in the form of esketamine (nasal spray), used under psychiatrist supervision.
Intended for treatment-resistant depression and suicidal ideation.
Clinics offering IV ketamine treatments for PTSD, anxiety, depression exist but often operate outside FDA-approved guidelines.
Important Clarifications
Ketamine does not act on traditional pain receptors.
It affects perception, mood, and cognition.
Abuse potential exists (Schedule III substance), especially outside medical settings.
Matthew Perry’s Death
Dr. B reviewed his autopsy: ketamine, not Suboxone, was the likely primary cause.
Case highlights dangers of unsupervised ketamine use and polypharmacy.
Dr. B’s Advice
People with substance abuse histories or severe psychiatric diagnoses (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder) should be especially cautious.
Ketamine should only be used in carefully monitored, clinical settings.
Dr. B’s Perspective
Hallucinogens like LSD differ from ketamine but hold therapeutic potential.
He believes in the power of carefully guided psychedelic therapy for PTSD, personality disorders, and even existential crises.
Warns against self-medicating with psychedelics—controlled settings with trained therapists are essential.
Microdosing vs. Therapeutic Dosing
Microdosing is a separate conversation with different goals (daily mood, creativity).
Full-dose hallucinogenic therapy is aimed at identity and consciousness shifts—needs structure and follow-up.
Is Ketamine a Silver Bullet?
No. It’s a tool—not a cure.
Post-treatment must include therapy, potential reintroduction of baseline medications, and continuous support.
The Broken System
True multidisciplinary care is rare due to insurance constraints.
Patients must advocate for themselves and find providers who understand the nuances of these treatments.
Important Reminder
Individual experience ≠ universal truth. While some may find ketamine transformational, others may not.
Decisions should be guided by professionals, not anecdotes.
Dr. B’s Takeaways
Ketamine has real therapeutic potential—but only in the right context.
The system is flawed, but knowledge, caution, and professional care can offer real hope.
Growth is a lifelong process. There are no shortcuts.
Where to Find Dr. B
YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram: @DrB360
Long and short-form content focused on recovery, mental health, and personal development.
Closing Words from Coach Blue Thank you all for tuning in. This episode is packed with insight, truth, and real tools. Share it with anyone navigating recovery, depression, or new therapeutic paths. And remember: turn your mess into your message.
Until next time, stay safe and stay connected.