Ketamine is a safe, FDA-approved medicine that has powerful biological and cognitive effects. This has been proven effective for patients suffering from a variety of physical and mental conditions, including those who haven’t found success with other therapies. By law, ketamine must be reported in the controlled substance database (PMP), which is searchable by any of the patient’s other providers. 

Choosing to undergo ketamine treatment is a personal decision. You might be concerned about your employer detecting ketamine in a routine drug test. Can your ketamine treatment be detected, and if so, when will traces of the drug disappear from your system?Read on to learn everything you need to know about ketamine and drug testing.

Will ketamine show up on a drug test?

This is one of the most frequent questions we receive about ketamine therapy. Will it show up on a drug test? Will my employer know that I’m using this treatment? Don’t worry—most standard drug tests do not include ketamine, so it is unlikely to appear on your test. 

What are the common drug tests used by employers?

Most employers, as well as government agencies, use a 5-panel drug test, which detects PCP, cannabis, cocaine, opiates, and amphetamines. However, some places use a 10-panel drug test, which tests for the same substances as the 5-panel but also includes other substances like methadone and barbiturates. The 10-panel test is used to detect both illegal drugs and prescription drugs that are frequently abused.

Can ketamine usage be detected in a drug test?

Ketamine is not included in standard 5-panel or 10-panel drug screenings. However, a separate test specifically for ketamine can be ordered. This is usually only requested if ketamine abuse is suspected, meaning it’s not standard practice for employers, schools, or government agencies.

In summary, while ketamine is not included in standard drug testing, it can be screened for if specifically tested. The drug metabolizes differently for everyone. Typically, ketamine is out of your system within 12 hours, but it may take a week or even two for traces to become completely undetectable by a drug test.  If you’re concerned about a ketamine drug test, talk to your provider. They can offer advice and help you decide if the treatment is the best option for you. Your provider can also provide a treatment letter to your employer explaining that you’re legitimately being prescribed ketamine for a medical or psychiatric condition.

Call us at (909) 679-3482 or email care@helloinnerwell.com to learn if ketamine therapy is right for you!