Ketamine
What is Ketamine Infusion Therapy?
Ketamine is an FDA approved treatment that works to restore areas of the brain that may be affected by mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, OCD, and numerous pain syndromes.
Ketamine stimulates the production of healthy neurotransmitters and helps to re-establish nerve connections. If you’ve tried prescription medication and other forms of treatment and have not had the results you desire, ketamine infusion may be the right option for you.
Though a nasal spray has recently been approved for administering ketamine into the body, at Sereno Wellness our office continues to use intravenous or IV infusions of ketamine only.
What conditions can it treat?
Ketamine infusion is a safe, quick, and effective treatment option for multiple mental health conditions, even if they seem treatment-resistant. IV ketamine infusion therapy has proven results in treating the following conditions:
- Bipolar disorder
- PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
- OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)
- PPD (Postpartum Disorder)
- Social anxiety
- Severe or chronic depression
- Those who struggle with suicidal thoughts
Who is a good candidate?
Generally, anyone who struggles with mental health disorders is a good candidate for ketamine infusion therapy. We do require that patients have a confirmed diagnosis of a mental health condition and are currently under the care of a provider for treatment.
To determine if you are a good candidate for treatment, schedule a consultation with our office. Following your consultation and thorough examination, we will work with your doctor to determine the best treatment for you.
Do I need to stop my medication to receive ketamine infusion therapy?
Do not change or stop taking any medication without consulting your doctor first. If you have any questions regarding your treatment and medication, please call our office with any questions.
Some medication does interfere with ketamine infusions, we will work with your doctor or doctors to ensure optimal care.
How many treatments will I need?
The average course of ketamine infusion therapy consists of six treatment sessions over the course of 3 weeks. However, depending on your condition and symptoms, you may need additional treatments.
All treatment plans are customized to the patient from the infusion schedule to dosage to ensure optimal results.
Results
Many patients report an improvement in mood and general well being after the first few treatments. It is not uncommon for patients to feel relief within several hours of their first infusion.
The length of your results will vary for each individual and can last for several months. Following your initial series of treatments, we can work with you to begin a maintenance program if necessary.
What to expect
Prior to your treatment, it is important that you do not consume any food at least 4 hours before your appointment and that you arrange for transportation on the day of your appointment. We recommend that you wear comfortable clothing that allows us to easily access your arms for treatment.
Ketamine is administered intravenously over a period of 40 minutes. You will remain awake during treatment but in a state of extreme relaxation. Your vital signs will be monitored during treatment for your safety and comfort. Patients sometimes report an ‘out of body’ experience of a sensation of ‘dreaminess.’ These feelings fade 20 minutes after treatment.
Some side effects of treatment include dizziness, blurred vision, and sometimes nausea.
For more information on how ketamine infusion therapy can help you, contact our office at .
SPRAVATO®
Spravato, also known by its generic name esketamine, is a prescription medication that has gained attention for its innovative approach to treating depression, particularly treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Here is some content about Spravato treatment:
Depression is a complex and challenging mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While traditional antidepressant medications have been effective for many, there remains a significant number of individuals who experience treatment-resistant depression (TRD). In recent years, a groundbreaking treatment called Spravato has emerged as a promising option for those struggling with TRD.
What is Spravato?
Spravato is a nasal spray medication that contains esketamine, a derivative of ketamine. Ketamine, initially known for its anesthetic properties, has shown potential in treating depression when administered in controlled doses. Esketamine, the active ingredient in Spravato, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in conjunction with an oral antidepressant for adults with TRD.
How Spravato Works:
The unique mechanism of Spravato sets it apart from traditional antidepressants. It works by targeting the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain, influencing the release of certain neurotransmitters. This novel approach provides rapid relief for some individuals who may not have responded to other treatments.
Administration and Monitoring:
Spravato is administered as a nasal spray under the supervision of a healthcare professional in a certified treatment center. The controlled setting ensures safety and allows for close monitoring of the patient during and after the treatment session. Patients are typically required to wait for a specified period before leaving the treatment facility.
Effectiveness:
Clinical studies have shown that Spravato can lead to a rapid reduction in depressive symptoms, with some patients reporting improvement within hours or days. However, the duration of the treatment and its long-term effects may vary from person to person.
Considerations and Precautions:
While Spravato represents a promising advancement in depression treatment, it is not suitable for everyone. Patients with a history of psychosis or certain cardiovascular conditions may not be eligible for this treatment. It is essential for individuals considering Spravato to discuss their medical history with their healthcare provider to determine if it is a suitable option for them.
Spravato offers hope for individuals grappling with treatment-resistant depression, providing a new avenue for those who have exhausted conventional treatment options. As with any medical intervention, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to assess individual suitability and determine the most appropriate course of action.