WHAT IS KETAMINE?
Ketamine is an FDA approved medication used in anesthesia and sedation. It was
discovered in 1962 and has been used in humans since 1970.
In recent years, mounting evidence generated by many clinical trials and studies has
shown Ketamine to be very effective in the treatment of chronic pain syndromes,
refractory depression, OCD, PTSD, and other conditions as well.
SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is FDA approved in conjunction with an oral
antidepressant, for the treatment of:
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) in adults.
Depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
WHY KETAMINE?
Ketamine works differently than traditional antidepressants, psychiatric medications or
pain medications. It works on the NMDA receptor to improve or repair faulty nerve
function, referred to as “Neuromodulation”.
Ketamine has been shown to produce rapid antidepressant and pain relieving effects, as
well as rapid reduction in the debilitating symptoms of OCD and PTSD. These results
typically last long after the medication has been metabolized.
For patients who have not responded well to multiple trials of conventional medications or
treatments, Ketamine can be life-changing.
KETAMINE RELATIVE CONTRAINDICATIONS
-Strokes / Increased intracranial pressure
-Pregnancy or breastfeeding
-Prior reaction to anesthesia
-Significant comorbidities or systemic disease. (Physician discretion).
-Uncontrolled Hypertension
-Congestive heart failure or significant coronary artery disease
-Active psychotic symptoms
-Schizophrenia
-Mania
-Substance abuse
KETAMINE SIDE EFFECTS
Most people tolerate ketamine very well. It does not suppress breathing and has been used
safely for decades. Unfortunately, Ketamine has also been abused as a street drug (in
MUCH higher doses in uncontrolled settings) and has earned a negative reputation with
some who do not understand its medical utility. Ketamine has not been found to be
addictive when administered properly and appropriately.