Ketamine therapy is a revolutionary treatment option for various mental illnesses, such as treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. However, there are still myths about ketamine therapy that can stop people from seeking out this life-changing treatment.
In this blog post, we will debunk these myths and reveal the facts associated with ketamine therapy.
Myth: Ketamine is Addictive
Fact: Ketamine has indeed been cited as a drug of misuse. However, it is not addictive when used as a part of a medically supervised treatment plan. It does not produce the same physical or psychological dependence as other drugs, such as opioids.
During ketamine treatment, doctors determine, monitor, and adjust ketamine doses specifically for the patient’s needs. In this way, ketamine therapy is not addictive.
Myth: Ketamine Therapy Has Dangerous Side Effects
Fact: Ketamine therapy is safe and well-tolerated when administered by trained and licensed professionals.
Researchers at the National Institute of Health found that patients with treatment-resistant depression who were treated with a single, low-dose ketamine infusion experienced minimal side effects or none at all. The most common side effects were:
- Feeling loopy or strange
- Nausea and vomiting
- Feeling disconnected from the body, feelings, and thoughts
- Perceptual disturbance
Research shows that all these side effects go away within a few hours after therapy.
Ketamine infusions are done in a clinical setting. This means that the patient is observed closely during and after the infusion therapy to ensure safety and efficacy. If any serious side effects occurred, the patient can be cared for immediately.
Myth: Ketamine is a Quick Fix.
Fact: Ketamine therapy is not a quick fix. It is a long-term treatment that requires multiple 40-minute treatment sessions.
However, many people experience significant relief from treatment-resistant depression and other conditions within 1 to 3 ketamine infusion therapy sessions.
Myth: Ketamine Therapy Hurts
Fact: Ketamine therapy does not hurt. Ketamine is administered via IV infusion. While there may be a pinch during IV placement, infusion does not hurt. Patients typically remain awake and aware during the infusion.
Myth: Ketamine Doesn’t Work
Fact: Ketamine therapy has delivered promising results in treating various mental health conditions. Research has shown that ketamine can significantly decrease symptoms related to:
- Treatment-resistant depression
- Anxiety disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Suicidal ideation
Myth: Ketamine Therapy Is a Substitute for Talk Therapy or Medications
Fact: Ketamine therapy is not a substitute for other mental health treatments. It is usually used in combination with other treatments, such as psychotherapy, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
It can help make other treatments more effective or help when other treatments, such as medications, haven’t worked.
Ketamine Treatment in Sandy Springs, GA
Ketamine therapy can be a life-changing treatment option when administered by a licensed and experienced medical professional. It’s essential to discuss the potential benefits, side effects, risks, and concerns about ketamine therapy with your mental health provider before deciding if it is the right course of action for you.
At Chastain Psychiatry, our highly trained and experienced mental health professional, Dr. Browning, provides up-to-date and evidence-based treatments to all his patients. He will thoroughly assess your condition to determine if you are the right candidate for ketamine therapy.
He also offers psychotherapy, medication management, telehealth, and more to address the unique mental health needs of his patients.
If you would like to know more about ketamine therapy, call us today at (404) 963-2647 or fill out our Online Appointment Request Form. We look forward to helping you feel happier and healthier!
