Some oral antidepressants can take weeks to become effective, but Ketamine starts to work within 5 minutes. If you have tried everything to feel better and nothing has worked, this transformational therapy might be the answer.
Who Can Use Ketamine?
Ketamine, once mainly used as an anesthetic, is now a promising treatment for conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Ketamine therapy offers hope for many people, especially those who found little success with more traditional forms of treatment. However, like any form of medical care, ketamine isn’t suitable for everyone. Below, we’ll explain who the best candidates for ketamine therapy are and help you determine whether this treatment is the right option for you.Understanding Ketamine Therapy
During ketamine therapy at our facility, we administer small doses of the anesthetic in a safe, controlled environment. Unlike traditional antidepressants that target the neurotransmitters serotonin or norepinephrine, ketamine works on the NMDA receptors in the brain. This interaction creates new neural pathways, which offer rapid relief from symptoms of depression and other mood disorders. Other benefits include:- Relief from treatment-resistant depression, mood disorders and suicidal thoughts
- Reduces anxiety and PTSD symptoms
- Improves mood and sense of wellbeing
- Increases self esteem and motivation
- Helps with chronic pain and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
- Helps with fibromyalgia
- Enhances emotional openness and the ability to process one’s feelings
- Improves sleep
Are You a Good Candidate For Ketamine Therapy?
Wondering if ketamine therapy is right for you? Take a look at the categories below and work with your healthcare provider to make your final decision.People With Treatment-Resistant Depression
If you tried conventional treatments for depression without success, ketamine therapy might change your life. Studies show that ketamine can provide relief from depressive symptoms, often rapidly, even in those who have not seen improvements with other medications.People With Severe Anxiety and PTSD
Ketamine therapy is a lifeline for people who deal with severe anxiety disorders or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By creating new neural networks, ketamine can heal trauma and help you find the calm inside of you.People With Chronic Pain
Ketamine has analgesic properties, making it a potential treatment option for you if you live with chronic pain. Ketamine therapy may be especially helpful for you if you suffer from neuropathic pain and traditional pain management strategies haven’t helped you get the relief you need.Who Is Not a Good Candidate For Ketamine Therapy?
Now that we’ve answered the question of who is a good candidate for ketamine therapy, let’s determine who shouldn’t try this form of treatment.People With a History of Substance Abuse
Ketamine can be addictive, so people with a history of substance misuse may not be ideal candidates for ketamine therapy. If you struggled with substance abuse in the past, evaluate the risks and benefits with your doctor before making a final decision about this treatment.People With Certain Medical Conditions
If you have uncontrolled blood pressure, heart disease, or a history of psychotic disorders, approach ketamine therapy with caution. The drug may exacerbate these conditions, and you will need a thorough medical evaluation before treatment to determine your risk level.Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women
Due to the lack of research on ketamine’s effects on pregnancy and breastfeeding, we recommend that women who are pregnant or breastfeeding avoid ketamine therapy.The Assessment Process
When you pursue ketamine therapy in San Diego, you can expect a thorough assessment that helps your care providers get to know you better. This assessment serves as the groundwork for your treatment and determines whether ketamine treatment is right for you. Here’s what’s involved in an assessment:Comprehensive Evaluation
This evaluation typically includes a detailed medical history, psychiatric assessment, and discussion of previous treatments and their outcomes.Ongoing Monitoring
Close monitoring during and after the therapy ensures the treatment’s effectiveness and addresses any potential side effects or complications.Medical Conditions That Can Benefit From Ketamine Therapy
You may benefit from ketamine therapy if you deal with any of the following conditions:- Treatment-Resistant Depression: Ketamine can rapidly alleviate depressive symptoms, offering hope in severe cases.
- Severe Anxiety Disorders: If you struggle with intense anxiety and haven’t gotten relief from standard treatments, ketamine therapy may help
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Ketamine’s unique effect on the brain can help alleviate the debilitating symptoms of PTSD, sometimes providing rapid relief.
- Chronic Pain Conditions: Ketamine’s analgesic properties can be beneficial if you have found little relief with conventional pain management strategies.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Emerging research suggests ketamine may help in reducing the symptoms of OCD, particularly in treatment-resistant cases.
- Bipolar Disorder: Ketamine may be especially helpful in treating the depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder.
- Suicidal Ideation: Ketamine’s rapid action in reducing depressive symptoms also extends to alleviating suicidal thoughts, making it a source of hope for dark times.