FAQs
FAQ
What can you treat with Ketamine Therapy?
- Chronic Pain
- Other Conditions that cause Pain
- Depression
- Anxiety
- PTSD
- Other Conditions
What is Ketamine?
Ketamine was approved by the FDA as an anesthetic in the 1970s. It has since been widely used for anesthesia for surgeries. It is now recognized as an effective treatment for depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. Ketamine is delivered at subanesthetic doses. Ketamine is extremely safe and does not cause respiratory suppression allowing it to be administered without needing airway support.
Ketamine is a NMDA and glutamate receptor antagonist. The NMDA receptor has a role in the etiology of depression and pain.
How does Ketamine work?
Ketamine is a NMDA and glutamate receptor antagonist. The NMDA receptor has a role in the etiology of depression and pain. Ketamine works rapidly in controlling symptoms of depression and acute suicidal ideation. Ketamine may increase glutamate levels and lead to synaptogenesis and elevated levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factors. This may allow the brain to become more adaptable and able to create new pathways giving the patient the opportunity to develop more positive thoughts and behaviors. Ketamine’s effects on chronic pain and depression outlast the actual drug levels in the body and may be mediated by a secondary increase in structural synaptic connectivity that is mediated by a neuronal response to the ketamine-induced hyper glutamatergic state. Ketamine may interact with the sigma receptors. It tends to work by decreasing central sensitization, wind-up phenomenon (development of ongoing, worsening, or chronic pain), and pain memory.
How soon will I see results?
Most patients see immediate results after the infusion which include improvements in their depression, anxiety, and/or chronic pain.
Patients who experience relief from their initial infusion are likely to extend these positive effects if the treatment is repeated several times. Dr. Ashford and his team will help formulate the best treatment plan for each patient depending on the severity of their symptoms and other factors. The patient and Dr. Ashford will decide whether to continue treatment at longer intervals for maintenance.
What are the side effects?
V Ketamine may cause:
- High blood pressure
- Nausea and vomiting
- Perceptual disturbances (time appearing to speed up or slow down; colors, textures, and noises that seem especially stimulating; blurry vision)
- Dissociation (sometimes called out-of-body experiences); rarely, a person may feel as if they are looking down on their body, for example.
Generally, any changes in perception or dissociation are most noticeable during the first infusion and end very quickly afterward.
Can I drive myself home after a treatment?
No.
You will need to have arranged for someone to take you home after a Ketamine Therapy Treatment.
