It’s a drug you see doctors on “The Pitt” give patients in the ER for pain relief or sedation.

It’s also what cast members on the reality show “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” take to connect with their spouses.

And it's what some Americans use to treat their depression.

Ketamine has gotten negative press in the past few years, like in 2023, when “Friends” co-star Matthew Perry died from “the acute effects of ketamine.”

We sat down with a doctor to learn more about this substance that’s showing up more and more in popular culture …and in Seattle, which is home to several ketamine clinics.

This is part of our recurring “Ask a Doctor” segment, where we ask medical professionals to help us understand health news and trends.

Guest: Dr. Nathan Sackett, an assistant professor in the University of Washington School of Medicine and addiction psychiatrist

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