Safety and Side Effects of Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine therapy is becoming more popular for treating mental health problems. Many people are concerned about its safety and side effects. This includes conditions like depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
At PAX Institute, your well-being is our top priority. In this blog, we’ll address key questions surrounding ketamine therapy’s safety profile, possible side effects, and the steps we take to ensure a safe, supportive treatment environment.
Is Ketamine Therapy Safe?
Yes, professionals generally consider ketamine therapy safe, especially when administered under professional supervision with experienced anesthesia providers. Doctors have used ketamine as an anesthetic for decades. Research supports its safety at low doses for mental health treatment.
PAX Institute’s anesthesia providers have extensive experience in administering ketamine safely and closely monitor patients throughout each session. This attentive care minimizes risks and ensures comfort, so you can focus on healing.
How Ketamine Therapy Differs from Traditional Antidepressants
Unlike traditional antidepressants that target serotonin and norepinephrine, ketamine works on the brain’s glutamate system. This helps promote neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new connections and pathways.
This unique mechanism can lead to rapid symptom relief, often within hours to days, rather than weeks or months. Because of its unique way of working, ketamine offers relief to individuals who haven’t benefited from other treatments. However, like with all medications, being aware of potential side effects is essential.
Common Side Effects of Ketamine Therapy
While ketamine therapy is well-tolerated, a few mild side effects can occasionally occur. Although uncommon, these side effects are usually short-lived and resolve shortly after treatment. They may include:
Nausea: Some patients may experience mild nausea during or after the infusion, but anti-nausea options are available if needed.
Temporary Hallucinations: A few patients report brief visual or sensory experiences during the session. These sensations are generally mild and fade quickly after treatment.
Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy is a potential side effect and usually subsides as the ketamine wears off.
Grogginess: Some patients may feel drowsy or groggy following the session, so we require arranging a ride home.
Blood Pressure elevation: Some patients experience blood pressure increases during treatment. This is usually transient and returns to baseline without intervention. Our anesthesia experts monitor blood pressure closely throughout the infusion and provide treatment if needed.
Throughout your infusion, our anesthesia providers will closely monitor you to ensure a safe, comfortable experience. If any side effects arise, our team will be there to provide support and make adjustments as needed.
Less Common Side Effects
While less common, some patients may experience effects like blurred vision, mild confusion, or anxiety, especially in the early stages of treatment. These sensations are typically short-lived and manageable with the guidance of our experienced team. At PAX Institute, we are proactive about adjusting treatment plans based on each individual’s response, ensuring a personalized approach to care.
The Importance of Monitoring and Personalized Care
At PAX Institute, our team of anesthesia providers and mental health experts monitors every ketamine treatment session. Our providers remain attentive to you, ensuring a safe, comfortable experience from start to finish. We assess each patient’s unique medical history and treatment needs, tailoring the therapy to minimize potential risks. If side effects occur, our team will manage them swiftly, prioritizing your well-being and comfort.
Pre-Treatment Tips for Reducing Side Effects
To help minimize any potential discomfort, we recommend a few simple pre-treatment tips:
Avoid Eating Right Before Treatment: To reduce the risk of nausea, refrain from eating for about two hours before your session.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking water before your session can help you feel more comfortable.
Have a Calm, Open Mindset: Relaxation and openness to the treatment experience can help you feel more at ease during the session.
Is Ketamine Therapy Addictive?
Ketamine’s use as a therapeutic tool in a controlled setting differs significantly from recreational use. When administered at low doses in a structured environment, the risk of dependency is minimal. At PAX Institute, our providers follow strict protocols to ensure that ketamine therapy is used responsibly and only as part of a comprehensive treatment plan designed for your long-term well-being.
Post-Treatment Care and Support
After each session, we give patients time to rest and recover before leaving. You may feel drowsy or mildly disoriented, so we require arranging a ride home. Our team will also follow up with you to discuss any symptoms or side effects experienced. In future sessions, we will adjust treatment to enhance comfort and effectiveness.
Your Safety, Our Priority
At PAX Institute, we take your safety and comfort seriously, making every effort to provide you with a positive treatment experience. If you have questions about ketamine therapy, its safety profile, or how it fits into your mental health journey, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our dedicated team is here to guide you, providing clarity, compassion, and care at every step. With the right knowledge and support, ketamine therapy can be a powerful tool for mental health healing.
