Is Ketamine Safe?
The goal of medicine is to offer benefits that outweigh the risk. As with anything we put into our bodies, we should ask ourselves what is the risk? Ketamine is unique in that it has been used in anesthesia for over 50 years and for pain management for over 20 years. In regards to anesthesia, ketamine is prescribed at 10 times the dose as it is used for depression, and even then ketamine is notably safe.
Ketamine Side Effects
Ketamine for depression is prescribed in small doses under the direct supervision of a medical professional. The most common side effects are dry mouth, dizziness, sleepiness, and nausea. Even more rare side effects are hallucinations, disorientation, anxiety, and blurred vision; however these side effects typically wear off within an hour of ketamine administration. While most experiences with ketamine are positive, some individuals may experience worsened depression and anxiety as well as increased blood pressure.
Ketamine providers typically will recommend 6 intravenous infusions of ketamine to all be given within a few week time period, and then based on the results, may encourage the patient to come in for boosters periodically throughout the year. There are currently no known unusual side effects for patients who regularly receive intravenous ketamine infusions over a two year time period. Ketamine works to build new neural pathways in the brain for lasting change so that patients don’t have to receive endless ketamine treatments.
Reducing Ketamine Side Effects
Over the years of treating depression with ketamine, medical professionals have learned to reduce the likelihood of negative side effects by carefully monitoring the dosing and the pacing of intravenous administration. Diligent monitoring in a clinical setting is essential for the administration of ketamine. Ketamine only becomes lethal at 450 times the normal dose given for depression.
Another very important influence is the setting of where ketamine is being administered– a calm, supportive environment where the individual is surrounded by professionals they know and trust, can make a significant difference in having a positive experience. Under the right supervision, ketamine is incredibly safe.
The Utah Bee has covered many aspects of ketamine including: what is it, is it addictive, how does it work, ketamine and PTSD, a patient’s experience and what to expect when seeking therapy.
ADVERTISEMENT
