What type of music is recommended for patients undergoing psychedelic ketamine (ketamine hydrochloride) therapy treatment?

From the Guidelines

For patients undergoing psychedelic ketamine therapy, instrumental music with minimal or no lyrics is generally recommended. This type of music helps guide the therapeutic experience without the potential distraction of lyrics that might direct thoughts in specific ways 1. Classical, ambient, electronic, or specially curated psychedelic therapy playlists are considered most beneficial.

Music Selection Considerations

• The tempo and emotional quality of the music should follow a journey-like structure: beginning with calming compositions during the onset, transitioning to more expansive or emotionally evocative pieces during the peak effects, and returning to grounding, peaceful music during the resolution phase.
• Music with binaural beats or specific frequencies (432 Hz or 528 Hz) may enhance the therapeutic experience for some patients.
• The music selection is important because ketamine creates an altered state of consciousness where auditory stimuli can profoundly influence the psychological experience.

Implementation in Clinical Practice

• Clinics often provide pre-selected playlists designed specifically for ketamine sessions, though some may allow patients to bring their own music after discussing with their provider.
• Headphones are typically recommended for a more immersive experience that helps patients focus inward during the treatment.
• As noted in studies on music therapy in ICU settings, patient preference should be considered, and the feasibility of implementing music therapy, including resources needed, should be taken into account 1.

From the Research

Music Recommendations for Psychedelic Ketamine Therapy

• The type of music recommended for patients undergoing psychedelic ketamine therapy is not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but it is mentioned that music can be used to enhance the emotional experience during treatment 2.
• The study suggests that pre-selected appropriate music can be included as part of the treatment protocol to improve patient care 2.
• However, there is no specific guidance on the type of music that is most effective for this purpose.
• The focus of the studies is on the therapeutic effects of ketamine and the importance of set and setting, including the therapeutic relationship and the patient's subjective experience 3, 4, 5, 6.
• The use of music as a therapeutic tool is not a primary focus of these studies, but it is acknowledged as a potential component of a comprehensive treatment approach 2.

Considerations for Music Selection

• The selection of music for psychedelic ketamine therapy may depend on individual patient preferences and the specific goals of the treatment session.
• Music that is calming, soothing, and emotionally resonant may be beneficial for enhancing the therapeutic experience.
• However, without further research, it is unclear what specific types of music are most effective for this purpose.
• The studies provided do not offer concrete evidence or recommendations for music selection in psychedelic ketamine therapy, highlighting the need for further investigation into this aspect of treatment 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.