Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine has also demonstrated benefits for anxiety like conditions including PTSD and OCD. Coupling these biological effects with psychotherapy and behavioral change maximizes the benefits and sustainability of gains.
What makes our Ketamine Therapy one of a kind?
Ketamine, originally developed as an anesthetic, has emerged as a promising treatment for various mental health conditions, including depression, addiction, anxiety, and PTSD. Its unique mechanism and rapid onset of action make it a valuable option, especially for patients who do not respond to traditional treatments. Some users describe a feeling of better cognition, memory and creativity as well after therapy.
Dr. Rusilko’s main brand, Lifestyle Medicine, which takes a more in-depth look at treating patients on emotional, cellular and elemental levels, has developed a unique protocol that combines the therapeutic effects of ketamine with numerous other nutritional and medicinal treatments found nowhere else.
How does it work?
Ketamine primarily acts as an NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor antagonist. This receptor is involved in glutamate neurotransmission, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation and neuroplasticity. By blocking NMDA receptors, ketamine increases the levels of glutamate in the brain, which activates AMPA (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid) receptors. This cascade leads to the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), promoting synaptic growth and connectivity.
What happens during a Ketamine Therapy session?
Experience: Two IV bags will be administered over the time frame. The first bag consists of various vitamins, minerals, amino acids, medication, and the ketamine itself with the second containing high dose antioxidants that help flush the system from any by-products. This is a proprietary formula used exclusively at Lifestyle Medicine.
- Prior to infusion each patient will be comfortably seated in a massage chair, where they will be provided with an eye mask and encouraged to listen to their selected playlist of music that will be requested in advance.
- Once the infusion begins patients can expect to feel the effects of the medication in 10-15 minutes, which will continue for the following 45-90 minutes depending on the drip speed and dosing.
- Gradual Onset and Offset: The descent and ascension into and out of the medication’s influence will be gradual and not abrasive.
- Physical Sensations: Patients can experience a heaviness in the physical body followed by a loss of sensation. A separation from typical cognitive processing can also be felt.
- Consciousness: Patients never lose consciousness and maintain control the entire time. Regular check ins ensure each patient’s safety.
Ketamine Therapy benefits
Patients should expect general mood improvement and a new interest in the world around them. Other improvements that are possible include improved sleep, interest in sex, and a better understanding of oneself and what makes them happy, some users describe a feeling of better cognition, memory and creativity as well after therapy. Ketamine has also demonstrated benefits for anxiety like conditions including PTSD and OCD. Coupling these biological effects with psychotherapy and behavioral change maximizes the benefits and sustainability of gains.
Who can benefit from it?
Depression
Ketamine has shown effectiveness in treating treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Studies indicate that it can quickly reduce suicidal thoughts and improve mood in patients who have not responded to other treatments.
Addiction
Emerging research suggests ketamine may help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in individuals with substance use disorders. Its effects on glutamate transmission are thought to disrupt the neural circuits associated with addiction.
Anxiety
Ketamine has been found to reduce symptoms of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety disorder (SAD). Its rapid action and effects on brain plasticity make it a valuable tool for anxiety management.
PTSD
For patients with PTSD, ketamine can alleviate symptoms such as flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, and hyperarousal. Its ability to promote synaptic growth and connectivity is be.
FAQs
- Light Meal: Have a light meal, such as a protein shake, one hour before the treatment.
- Substance Abstinence: Abstain from all substance use, including alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, and illicit substances, for a period of 48 hours before and 24hrs after.
- Blood Pressure Medications: Hold medications that may raise blood pressure, such as stimulants. Continue anti-hypertension and diabetic medications with dose adjustments for insulin based on dietary intake adjustments.
- Elicit Drugs: Avoid all illegal drugs before and after the treatment.
- Medical and Psychiatric Evaluation: Patients typically undergo a thorough psychiatric evaluation before starting ketamine therapy. This includes discussing medical history, current medications, and any potential contraindications.
- Treatment Explanation: An explanation of the treatment process and what to expect will be provided to ensure patients are well-informed and prepared.
- Support Person: Patients agree to establish an aftercare support person for 4 hours following treatment who they will be monitored by.
- Activity Restrictions: Patients are not to drive a motorized vehicle, ride a bicycle, or exercise vigorously for 8 hours following treatment. They are also encouraged to avoid making important decisions or engaging in social activity.
- Post-Treatment Eating: Patients can eat as they feel the need to after the treatment.
- Journaling: Journaling is encouraged to help assimilate their treatment experience.
Common side effects of ketamine therapy may include dizziness, blurred vision, dissociation, increased heart rate, and nausea. These effects are usually temporary and subside after the infusion.
The number of ketamine therapy sessions needed varies depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Some patients may experience improvements after just one session, while others may require a series of treatments for optimal results.
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