Ketamine is a commonly used medication with many uses across medical specialties. It has been safely used in anesthesia for decades. Ketamine works on receptors in your body to decrease pain, produce anesthesia and at lower doses, it allows the brain to find a dissociative state. The ability to reach this state is important for changing the "stuck pathways" some people develop in enduring mental illness.
Strong evidence exists for the use of ketamine in treatment resistant depression, acute suicidal ideation, post traumatic stress disorder, and bipolar disorder. Recent evidence shows promise for treatment of severe generalized anxiety disorder, anorexia nervosa and obsessive compulsive disorder. Ketamine is one of several psychedelic medicines currently being studied in mental health. Appropriate and safe administration has helped many to find a way out of stifling mental illness. However, it is not for everyone. Comprehensive intake with education, medical and psychiatric screening determine if it may be a good option.
Ketamine can be given nasally, intramuscularly, intravenously and orally. I offer Spravato (nasal spray), IM and IV infusion treatment options. Method and timing of treatment is individulized after initial evaluation. I have many years of experience administering ketamine and monitoring for adverse effects. Our office is fully equipped for safe monitoring and treatment during therapy.
I take a very individulized approach to ketamine administration. After careful psychiatric evaluation and discussion of your treatment goals, if ketamine is an option, we discuss a personalized plan. This includes a great deal of education and exploration of treatment options.
A two hour window for ketamine therapy is usually set to allow for time to briefly check in before and after treatment, provide a calming setting and allow for adequate recovery.