Is There a Risk of Addiction with Ketamine Treatment?

Physician-assisted ketamine therapy is gaining popularity among mental health patients who may not react to standard therapies, prompting concerns about addiction. Ketamine therapy is only a recently authorized treatment in Canada, and it is possible that ketamine can be an addictive substance which can potentially be abused. It is critical to consider the risks and benefits before beginning ketamine treatment.

Understanding Ketamine Therapy

Ketamine therapy can help depression, anxiety, and PTSD patients who have not responded to other treatments. It combines psychotherapy and low-dose ketamine. After ketamine, psychotherapy begins 24–48 hours later. This approach aims to modify brain functioning on a long-term basis, while providing short-term relief, which improves therapy efficacy overall. Every patient will receive care that is tailored to fit their specific mental health needs because this therapy is individualized.

Addiction Risks in Ketamine Therapy

An essential consideration regarding ketamine therapy is the potential for addiction. It is imperative to differentiate ketamine usage for recreational purposes from that which is employed for medical purposes.

The risk of addiction with ketamine treatment is significantly decreased by professional management of the dosage, as well as assessing the clinical risk where ketamine is administered.

Reducing the Addiction Risks in Ketamine Therapy

Safety Procedures in Medical Environments

To reduce the risk of addiction in therapeutic settings, the suitability of ketamine therapy for individual patients is determined by using medical examinations and risk screenings. The ketamine treatment is always carried out under the direction of certified nurses and skilled anesthesiologists, to ensure the highest level of safety for the patient.

Integration and Psychotherapy

An integral component of ketamine therapy is psychotherapy. This component aids in the patient’s overall mental health plan by incorporating fresh viewpoints and insights obtained from ketamine infusions. It is advised to continue psychotherapy following ketamine treatment, the same as it is advised to continue physical therapy following surgery. Closely supervised ketamine therapy combined with psychotherapy can reduce the likelihood of ketamine dependence.

Prioritizing Safety in Ketamine Therapy

As no medical technique is 100% risk-free, ketamine therapy is designed with an emphasis on safety and lowering the risk of addiction.

It is advised that people seek medical advice to comprehend the effects of ketamine therapy and whether it is appropriate for their case.

Caledon Clinic specializes in ketamine therapy for treatment resistant depression and other mental health concerns. Contact us to schedule a consultation with our team and discover if ketamine treatment is the right option for you.