Ketamine Therapy Altamonte Springs, FL

Medical Uses for Ketamine Therapy

Researchers believe that ketamine treatment targets NMDA receptors, which control many physical processes. A substance known as glutamate activates NMDA receptors. Ketamine may boost the amount of glutamate in the brain. This neurotransmitter acts on NMDA receptors to create a cascading effect within the brain.

Ketamine can help neurons communicate with each other. Over time, this process may alter the patient's mood. Ketamine affects cognition and thought patterns too. In patients with severe mental illness, ketamine may provide lasting relief.

Doctors often use ketamine treatment for patients with treatment-resistant depression. It may also relieve symptoms linked to anxiety, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Some research also suggests that ketamine treatment may ease post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), reducing a patient's risk of suicide.

How Ketamine Therapy Works

About two-thirds of patients report ongoing symptoms after their first round of mental health treatment. More than 30% continue to experience symptoms even after several treatments. But a majority of patients respond favorably to ketamine. One study found that about 70% of patients responded well to IV ketamine. In addition, patients reported significant symptom relief after treatment.

After the initial treatment phase, many patients need an occasional "booster" dosage. Unlike traditional antidepressants, patients do not have to take medication daily. Instead, they receive their booster dosage as needed. In some cases, patients go several months between treatments.

Many new patients express concern about ketamine. They heard that ketamine is a "party drug," and they worry about the possibility of addiction. Fortunately, medical ketamine has few risks. The team carefully calculates the proper dosage, taking into account the patient's unique needs. Then, they administer the drug in a clinical setting

Throughout treatment, a medical doctor oversees the patient’s care. The doctor determines whether to adjust the dosage to ensure safety. Patients receive ongoing monitoring during the treatment process. Adverse outcomes of ketamine treatment are rare.

What to Expect from Ketamine Therapy

Patients begin by checking into the infusion clinic. If this is the patient’s first visit, they may have an in-depth consultation. During later visits, the patient can proceed straight to treatment. A team member checks a patient’s vital signs and discusses current symptoms. Next, the team member cleans the patient's arm and inserts the IV line. Then, they administer the patient’s customized dosage.

Most patients feel calm and relaxed during treatment. But rest assured that a team member remains nearby. In rare cases, some patients may feel agitated during treatment. These side effects usually pass within fifteen minutes. In the meantime, the team member can provide support and reassurance.

IV infusions usually take about 40 minutes, and patients can relax during treatment. Afterward, most patients feel tired, dizzy, or groggy. Patients should not drive immediately after ketamine treatment. It is also not a good idea to return to work or make significant decisions. Patients should plan to have a friend or family member take them home. Most patients spend the rest of their treatment day relaxing on the couch.

Patients should avoid alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs before treatment. Our team can provide more information about which medications and substances are safe to use around the time of treatment. We recommend that patients eat a healthy meal the day of their infusion. Patients might find it helpful to spend some time relaxing before treatment. Some patients feel a little nervous before their first infusion. Taking time to meditate or perform breathing exercises can help calm nerves.

Ketamine treatment uses small needles to minimize discomfort. If the patient is feeling anxious about the injection, let our team know right away. We can take steps to make them more comfortable.

Side Effects of Ketamine Therapy

Sometimes, ketamine treatment can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Disorientation
• Drowsiness
• Reduced pain perception
• Unusual thoughts

Other side effects can include feeling anxiety, agitation, nausea, vomiting, and sleep disturbances. In rare cases, patients might experience hallucinations. These side effects usually pass quickly. They often occur while the patient is still under medical supervision. If a patient experiences an unpleasant side effect, the infusion team can ease their symptoms. They can also adjust the dosage for next time. Keep in mind that most side effects are short-lived.