Are You a Candidate for Ketamine Therapy?

Ketamine therapy has become a popular treatment method in psychiatry in recent years. Psychiatrists can use ketamine therapy as part of a patient's treatment plan if they struggle with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, not everyone is an ideal candidate for this type of therapy. This blog will review the different criteria for determining if ketamine therapy is the right treatment method based on a person's specific needs.

Important note

It is important to remember that only a licensed psychiatrist who has the credentials and experience should administer ketamine therapy. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health disorders and their symptoms. In addition, they have the expertise to determine if ketamine therapy is the right course of treatment for a particular patient.

How to determine if a patient is an ideal candidate for ketamine therapy

Symptom severity

One of the main factors that help a psychiatrist determine if a patient is an ideal candidate for ketamine therapy is the severity of their symptoms. Ketamine therapy is typically reserved for patients who have not responded to traditional treatments (antidepressants or therapy). However, a psychiatrist may consider this therapy for patients experiencing severe symptoms, such as suicidal ideation or severe anxiety.

Medical history

Another factor psychiatrists consider when evaluating a patient for ketamine therapy is their medical history. For example, suppose a patient has a history of substance abuse or addiction. In that case, they may not be good candidates for ketamine therapy, as it is a powerful disassociative drug that can cause some patients to abuse it outside of a clinical setting. In addition, patients with certain medical conditions, such as hypertension or cardiovascular disease, may not be ideal candidates for ketamine therapy.

Current medications

Psychiatrists will also evaluate a patient's current medications to determine if they are a good candidate for ketamine therapy. Ketamine can interact with certain medications, including benzodiazepines and opioids, leading to adverse side effects. If a patient takes these medications, they may have to stop taking them before starting ketamine therapy.

Mental state

Before treatment, a psychiatrist must evaluate a patient's current mental state. If they are currently experiencing psychosis or have a history of schizophrenia, the psychiatrist will likely determine that they are not an ideal candidate for ketamine therapy. In addition, patients with a history of dissociative disorders may experience more negative side effects from ketamine therapy.

What to expect from treatment

Once a psychiatrist has determined that an individual is an ideal candidate for ketamine therapy, they will work with this patient to develop a customized treatment plan. Ketamine therapy is typically administered through intravenous (IV) infusion; it can also be given through an intranasal spray or oral medication. However, these methods need more research to study their efficacy compared to IV infusion. 

During each treatment session, the patient will be closely monitored to ensure their safety and minimize the risk of negative side effects. Psychiatrists only administer a small amount of ketamine to avoid the 'k-hole effect,' which causes intense feelings of disassociation, hallucinations, or illusions. Depending on their specific needs and treatment plan, patients will likely need several treatments over several weeks or months.

Patients need to remember that ketamine therapy is not a cure for their mental health condition. It is a tool of treatment that can help manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. People who undergo ketamine therapy will need to continue with their traditional treatments, such as therapy and medication, to manage their condition.

Still have questions?

Ketamine therapy can be an effective treatment option for those struggling with certain mental health conditions. However, it is important to work with an experienced psychiatrist to determine if you are an ideal candidate for this treatment method. If you have questions about ketamine therapy, call our office to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team can walk you through the process and determine if you qualify for ketamine therapy.

Ketamine therapy is available at Future Psych Solutions in our Columbia office. Request an appointment by visiting https://futurepsychsolutions.com or calling (803) 335-5232.

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