Are You a Candidate for Ketamine Therapy?

Research shows that ketamine therapy is becoming popular in recent years. This drug-assisted treatment for mental disorders can provide quick relief. Many patients gain many benefits from this therapy. That is why finding out if you qualify for it is crucial. Here are ways to find out if you are a good candidate for ketamine therapy.

The essentials

This therapy involves the use of low-dose ketamine. Studies reveal that this small amount is enough to interact with specific brain receptors. That is why many doctors use ketamine for depression and other mental issues. The lasting effectiveness of this treatment shows promise. Patients report quick relief even after the first session.

Determining if a patient qualifies for ketamine therapy

The right medical professional can assess the patient. This will determine if the individual is a good candidate for this therapy. Medical history, age, habits, and current medications influence the doctor’s decision. Here are some of the other factors the medical professional may also look into:

• Past treatment methods can provide the doctor with the patient’s treatment history during the consultation. The list of past treatments can clarify if this therapy is effective for the patient’s condition. The treatment is ideal for patients who did not improve with other treatments and medications.
• A severe mental condition can qualify an individual for this therapy.
• Specific medical conditions can help determine if the patient is a good candidate.
• The patient’s goals and preferences are also top considerations for this therapy.
• Chronic neck pain in the back and neck, as well as neuropathy, can qualify a patient for this treatment.

Those who should not receive ketamine therapy

After a thorough assessment, some patients should not receive this treatment. Pregnant and lactating women and kids below 18 years old do not qualify for this treatment. A family history of psychosis will not make an individual a good fit for this therapy. Ketamine is not good for patients with acute cardiovascular diseases and hypertension. High intracranial pressure and substance abuse do not make a patient a good candidate for this therapy. The doctor can then suggest another means to treat the patient’s mental disorder.

The side effects

Clinical studies show that ketamine therapy is healthy even for patients who have suicidal ideations. Even so, there are still side effects any patient could experience. The most common side effects are dissociation and intoxication. There could also be headaches, high blood pressure, and anxiety, as well as blurred vision. Severe side effects include the following:

• Worsening of psychotic disorders
• Dementia in older adults
• Addiction may develop

Ketamine therapy works

Ketamine is an off-label treatment for different psychiatric conditions. Many research trials prove that ketamine for depression is fast-acting and effective. Patients can experience relief from symptoms in hours or days. About 50% to 70% of patients experience this rapid relief. This is a major improvement from having traditional treatments that often take four to six weeks to work. Some patients may not even improve with these conventional medications or therapy.

The effects

The patient will receive intravenous infusions of ketamine for about 40 minutes. The amount of ketamine is lower than the dose for sedation. Research shows that ketamine tablets and intramuscular injections are becoming popular now. The doctor will determine which form of ketamine therapy is suitable for the patient.

This therapy involves sitting in a comfortable chair. The patient can listen to music and relax during the treatment. The initial therapy will have six sessions for two to three weeks. Talk therapy can follow after each treatment session.

New hope for patients

Studies show that some patients gain more awareness after the session. Other patients report clearer vision. Anxiety and uncontrollable crying can happen as well. That is why the provider will keep an eye on the patient after the session. This will allow the doctor to treat the common side effects. The enhanced results of ketamine therapy can provide new hope for many patients.

Ketamine therapy can provide quick and lasting relief if you are a good candidate for it

Patients with severe mental disorders may not be responsive to traditional treatments anymore. Their treatment plans may have lasted for years. Even so, their mental conditions remain. Other alternative therapies, such as TMS, may not be that effective either. This is when your doctor may recommend ketamine therapy. Working with your healthcare provider can help change your life for the better and give you the relief you have wanted.

Get more information about Optimal Medical Group in Fresno at https://omgwellnessmd.com.

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