Blog

Who Can Benefit from Ketamine Treatment?

Medically supervised ketamine infusion therapy can help reactivate and form new neural connections in the brain which can help to overcome negative thoughts and reduce depression. This therapy can essentially ‘re program ‘ the brain, which may explain why antidepressant medications that were previously ineffective could become beneficial after undergoing ketamine treatment.

What is Ketamine Therapy?

Ketamine therapy is a treatment approach that uses low doses of ketamine to help relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Ketamine therapy typically involves a series of sessions where patients receive intravenous infusions while engaging in therapeutic support, such as psychotherapy. This can enhance the therapeutic effects of the medication.

Are You Eligible for Ketamine Therapy?

If you have a condition that could benefit from ketamine, you might be a suitable candidate. However, it is important to remember that ketamine is a controlled substance with both physical and mental effects. Your doctor will first have to review your medical history to see if this treatment is right for you.

You may be eligible for ketamine therapy if:

You have already tried different medication combinations or dosages without any relief in your symptoms.
You have tried other therapies, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
You have not responded fully to a group or individual Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or therapy

You may NOT be eligible for ketamine therapy if:

You are pregnant
You have uncontrolled hypertension
You have acute cardiovascular disease
You had a previous negative response to ketamine therapy
You have a history of psychosis, substance abuse, or increased intracranial pressure

Is Ketamine the Right Treatment for You?

Ketamine is not the first treatment option for depression, PTSD or anxiety. It is used when other traditional treatments have not been effective. Ketamine treatment does not cure but can help improve symptoms for a certain period of time. It is also important to note that the effects can be temporary and may require ongoing treatment or additional therapeutic approaches for sustained effect.

Discuss with your primary care physician, mental health specialist or other healthcare providers to understand and decide if ketamine treatment is suitable for you. Based on your treatment goals, history with depression, and potential side effects of the medication, it becomes clearer to identify if you may be or not be the right candidate for ketamine therapy.