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What is Ketamine?
Ketamine was first introduced in the 1960s as an anesthetic and pain killer. In the early 2000’s medical researchers began to study the effect of Ketamine on mental health. They found that Ketamine worked very quickly, sometimes within hours and that it had a significant impact on alleviating the symptoms of depression. Ketamine is not FDA-approved for depression, but it is FDA approved for other uses, meaning it is safe to use in controlled medical practice. In fact, one in five prescriptions written today are for off-label use. Medications prescribed off-label can be life-changing, especially if a patient has exhausted all other approved options. Understanding exactly what ketamine infusion therapy is and how it differs from other treatments is an important first step.
Prior to Treatment
Before getting treatment, the doctor will thoroughly evaluate your information and medical history to determine if you are a good candidate for Ketamine treatment. If both parties agree to proceed with a Ketamine infusion treatment plan, you will be asked to fill out a treatment plan agreement. Patients of New Life Wellness Clinic are required to have a documented treatment plan to ensure success. We coordinate your care with your current health care provider in order to provide you with the highest chance of success. As part of this assessment, you will also learn what disqualifies you from ketamine therapy to ensure your safety.
How to Prepare
1. Refrain from eating or drinking eight hours before your appointment.
2. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to be at the clinic for 1 ½ to 2 hours.
3. Wear a short-sleeved shirt or a shirt with loose sleeves.
4. You may want to bring one, or more, of the following:
- Book or other reading material.
- A phone or tablet.
- Prepared music playlist that is relaxing.
- A sweater or blanket.
- An adult must drive you home. You will be required to provide their name and phone number before the treatment.
To help make an informed decision, many people ask, “How do you know if ketamine therapy is right for you?
What to Expect
It is important to know that feelings of lightheadedness can occur during the treatment. This is normal and it will pass. You may feel tired for a few hours after treatment so it is best not to have anything strenuous planned for the rest of your day. Ketamine infusion often relieves symptoms of depression within a few hours of treatment. It can work for even the most treatment-resistant and debilitating symptoms of depression. Furthermore, understanding how ketamine treats depression biologically provides valuable insight into its rapid and sustained effects.
Final Thoughts
If you or someone you know is suffering from a major depressive disorder, we are here to help. Ketamine infusion treatments are changing the way people are living with severe depression, offering hope and rapid relief even for the most treatment-resistant and debilitating symptoms.
At New Life Wellness Clinic, we offer specialized care, such as Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and counseling for a spectrum of conditions. Call us today to see if you are a candidate for Ketamine infusion treatment and begin your journey toward a happier, healthier life.
