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.
