PTSD can make life complicated. Bad memories, loud worries, jumpiness, and trouble sleeping are common. Many people try talk therapy and medication. For some people, those do not help enough. That is why some doctors offer ketamine treatment.
We will tell you what ketamine is, how it can be useful in combating PTSD, what the research suggests, and what to be cautious about.
What Is Ketamine?
Ketamine is a medicine. Doctors have used it for a long time to help people sleep during surgery. At smaller doses, it can modify the brain’s management of stress and influence memory. Some doctors study it for mood problems and PTSD. Spravato is a drug used for treating challenging depression. Some clinics use IV ketamine or nasal forms to help with PTSD symptoms.
How Might Ketamine Help With PTSD?
Many people feel relief quickly after a ketamine dose. Some feel less stuck in the days after treatment. Researchers think ketamine might show the brain healthier ways to think. It may make it easier to learn in therapy and to feel less overwhelmed by bad memories. Short drops in symptoms after ketamine have been seen in studies.
What Do Studies Say?
Studies show mixed results. Some studies found fast drops in PTSD symptoms after ketamine. Other studies found more minor or short-lived benefits. The evidence is not yet firm for a long-term cure. Health groups look at the data and say more studies are needed. That means ketamine is not the first treatment most doctors choose for PTSD.
What This Means
Ketamine can help some people with PTSD symptoms fast. It is not a proven cure. It may help as a short-term tool to ease symptoms so people can do therapy better. Doctors need more good studies to know who it helps most and how to keep the gains.
Risks and Side Effects
Ketamine has risks. Common side effects during or after treatment include:
- Feeling spaced out or strange
- Nausea or headache
- Temporary rise in blood pressure or an accelerated heart rate.
- Trouble thinking clearly for a few hours
There is also a risk of misuse. At high or frequent doses, ketamine can be addictive. For these reasons, ketamine should be given by trained clinicians who watch vital signs and mood.
Who Might Be a Candidate?
People who may be considered for ketamine often have:
- PTSD that still causes big problems despite usual care
- Tried therapy and at least one medicine without enough benefit
Even then, a careful check is needed. Some health or heart problems raise the risk of side effects. A clinician will review your history and do an exam before offering ketamine.
What Does a Treatment Look Like?
Programs differ, but a safe clinic will usually do this:
- A complete assessment first. The healthcare provider inquires about your health, medications, and history of PTSD.
- Clear consent. The team explains benefits, limits, and risks.
- A monitored session. For IV ketamine, you are watched in a clinic. For Spravato, the dose is given, and you stay while staff watch you. Vitals are checked.
- Follow-up care. Clinicians check on your symptoms. Often, treatment is paired with therapy to get the best results.
Mind Glamour PLLC includes ketamine therapy within a comprehensive care strategy. They focus on safety, long-term healing, and personal plans that fit each person. Services also include telepsychiatry and other supports. Dr. Swae Harris leads the team. The clinic helps with assessment, planning, treatment, and aftercare.
What to Expect After Treatment
After a session, you may feel calm or tired. Some people feel happy for a short time. Others feel sad for a short time. Your thinking may be slow for a few hours. Do not drive or use machines for the rest of the day. Set up a ride home if you are administered IV ketamine or Spravato. Drink water and rest after treatment. Eat light food if you feel sick. Keep a brief list of how you feel each day. Bring that list to follow-up visits. Your clinician may ask you to do therapy while you get ketamine. Therapy can help the gains last longer. Some people need several sessions to feel better. Some people get a boost and then need more care weeks later. If you start to feel worse or have new concerns, contact your clinic immediately. Keep emergency contact numbers on hand. If you feel chest pain or have trouble breathing, seek help at the nearest emergency room without delay.
How Ketamine Fits With Other Care
Ketamine is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive approach. Trauma-based work and exposure therapy are key for lasting change in many cases. Mood and sleep medications can also help. Ketamine offers quick relief and helps people engage more in therapy. Still, it is rarely the sole part of the process.
Conclusion
Ketamine can help ease PTSD symptoms for some people. Effects can be fast. But the science is still growing, and experts urge caution. It is not a standard cure for PTSD. Talk with a trained clinician. Get a full check-up. Ask about safety and monitoring. Also, consider how ketamine fits into your long-term plan.
If you’re interested in ketamine, Mind Glamour PLLC can help. They offer evaluations and monitored ketamine therapy within a patient-centered approach. The team aims to help people get relief and build lasting healing.
FAQs
Q. Where can I get ketamine treatment?
Mind Glamour PLLC offers ketamine treatment in a safe, caring setting. Their team makes a plan that fits your needs and supports long-term healing.
Q. Who should not get ketamine?
Those with heart problems, blood pressure issues, or substance use may not be the best candidates. A doctor will check your health first.