KETAMINE INFUSION THERAPY
KETAMINE INFUSION THERAPY
WHAT IS KETAMINE?
Ketamine is an anesthetic agent but can also be used as an analgesic, or pain medication. It is considered safe as an anesthetic because it does not lower blood pressure or the breathing rate. Recent research has shown that intravenous infusion of low dose ketamine can be very effective in treating severe depression and certain chronic pain conditions that are resistant to all other therapy. Ketamine, discovered in 1962, has been used extensively for both analgesia and anesthesia.
WHAT IS KETAMINE USED FOR?
Ketamine has many uses. Administered intravenously (IV) at low doses, it can effectively treat chronic pain. We have found ketamine particularly useful in patients with headaches, depression, fibromyalgia, and complex regional pain syndrome. In patients who have failed to respond to other treatments, ketamine has been shown to be highly effective. Many studies have reported a 70% success rate for the patients that receive ketamine infusion therapy. This is very encouraging, and we will assess the effectiveness of the treatment after you have received 1-2 infusions.
WHO SHOULD ADMINISTER KETAMINE INFUSIONS?
Due to Ketamine’s anesthetic properties and safety implications, it is important for an anesthesiologist to be the only person administering the medication.
HOW IS KETAMINE ADMINISTERED?
Ketamine is given as a low dose infusion and works differently from other medications currently available by blocking a neurotransmitter in the brain called glutamate. Research continues to fully understand the effects of blocking the glutamate (NMDA) receptor, but it appears that neuron connection damage caused by “being depressed” or experiencing chronic pain is reversed, allowing for healthy connections to develop. The result is a dramatic and rapid improvement in symptoms.
Currently, there is not one universal protocol for ketamine infusions. After completing extensive research on the topic, Dr. Stottle developed protocols specifically for Omaha Pain Physicians. There are different protocols for each condition we treat, therefore, be sure to talk to your provider about which protocol is right for you.
WHY IS KETAMINE NOT COVERED BY MY INSURANCE?
Despite extensive use of ketamine in various clinical arenas, there is no consensus on an optimal intravenous (IV) ketamine infusion protocol for the treatment of pain conditions or depression. Because there is no set protocol and there has not yet been a published doubled- blinded study regarding IV ketamine, insurance companies consider ketamine an experimental treatment. We can provide you with health insurance claim forms for you to submit for reimbursement.
WHAT IS THE COST OF KETAMINE?
The cost of the infusion series will depend on the amount of infusions required and varies from patient to patient. This will be discussed at your appointment.
HAVE ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?
Our team is here to answer your questions anytime. If you would like to discuss this treatment option with us, feel free to either schedule an appointment with one of our Practitioners, call our office and leave your information on our nurse line to be called, or email us at: info@omahapainphysicians.com
