Recently, I have seen a great deal of questions and misunderstanding on social media about Ketamine and how it works to help with mood disorders. As a result, I hope to help create some brief but basic content to help answer some common questions and concerns.
HISTORY & RESEARCH
Ketamine was synthesized in the 1960s to function as an anesthetic and pain reliever, and it is still used in this manner to this day. However, at the time of its synthesis, its powerful effect on mental health conditions or mood disorders was unknown or understood.
Study after study has shown ketamine’s efficacy and safety. Institutions like Harvard and Scientific American continue to research and showcase ketamine’s advent as a rapid and profound treatment for pain conditions and mood disorders.
MISCONCEPTIONS FOR USE OF KETAMINE
You can find ketamine as a recreational drug, however, when used in that fashion, the amount taken is much higher and instantaneous that the amounts given for mood disorder, which is through a low-dose intravenous infusion over a 40 minute period and in a professional setting, such as Revitalist. The affects are much different. Additionally, the reason it is commonly referred to as a horse tranquilizer is due to its safety index in veterinary medicine.
As to the concerns for addiction, Ketamine differs from opioids in some key factors. When given as previously described (low-dose intravenous), the effects are much different. As such, studies and research indicate these forms of usage may be more effective than opioids without the side effects or chance of dependence.
MORE DETAILS
Revitalist’s clinics are staffed with CRNAs, Psychiatric APRNs, Therapists (and other adjunct staff including RNs, LPNs, MAs, and the like) making sure there is a comprehensive panel of experts to give our clients the utmost quality of care and compassion. Many hospitals do offer these services, as well. Emergency departments are now often being trained on ketamine infusions due to its non-narcotic status with the DEA.
While it is a scheduled medication and individuals needing these services are of high acuity, Revitalist is staffed appropriately to handle medical and mental health emergencies should they arise. Our providers are trained appropriately and hold advanced degrees in either anesthesia and/or psychiatry and hold additional certifications including ACLS and PALS.
Regardless, not all clinics are this comprehensive, and each clinic should be researched accordingly.
SUMMARY
The stigma attached to use of ketamine sometimes does a tremendous disservice to a vital and legal treatment. Ketamine is the first of a new wave of treatment options expected to massively overhaul the field of mental health and holistic wellbeing. As such, ketamine is currently the only federally-approved psychedelic medicine. Revitalist is committed to staying abreast of research and evidence based data to grow in providing competent treatment, as the understanding of ketamine and its usage for holistic health and wellness continues to grow.
If you have questions or need help, please reach out.