Ketamine Therapy as Replacement for Psychiatric Medication

Psychiatric medications are used to ease or treat the symptoms of mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, bipolar disorder, and more. They work by acting on brain chemicals that regulate emotions and thought patterns.

Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, stimulants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers are all considered to be psychiatric medications. These types of medications may be available in the form of pills, capsules, liquids, injections, patches or tablets that can be prescribed by a doctor or psychiatrist and picked up at a pharmacy. They are sometimes combined with psychotherapy and mental health treatment methods.

It is important to keep in mind that even though psychiatric medications can be beneficial, they affect everyone who takes them differently. It can take someone a few tries before they find the most effective medication for them with the least side effects. Patients may need to take certain medications for anywhere from a few weeks to a few months until they notice improvement. In some cases, individuals may not respond to any psychiatric medications at all. So where does someone with a mental health condition like depression turn when traditional medication isn’t working for them?

Why People Receive Ketamine Therapy

Ketamine therapy is used for people with depression who don’t respond to psychiatric medication. Not only can it help relieve symptoms of treatment-resistant depression in as little as a few hours, it can also help individuals manage their mental health in the long-term as well.

Usually available in the form of an injectable infusion, ketamine must be administered by a certified healthcare professional at a medical facility or mental health treatment center. Ketamine therapy typically involves six, 30-45 minute sessions that are each spaced about two weeks apart. Some individuals who receive ketamine therapy may begin to see slight changes after the first session or two, but most will begin to see full improvement shortly after their last session.

Can Ketamine Replace Psychiatric Medication?

Yes, ketamine can replace psychiatric medication – but only if psychiatric medication doesn’t work for someone or if they don’t think it’s right for them. Individuals should only stop taking medication with their doctor’s permission, and should always wean off instead of stopping suddenly. In fact, ketamine therapy can be helpful for individuals who struggle with symptoms of depression but are trying to taper off of their current medication. Ketamine therapy can also be used alongside certain psychiatric medications to enhance the positive side effects.

Deciding If Ketamine Is Right For You

If you haven’t seen success from multiple psychiatric medications, talk to your doctor about the potential of trying ketamine therapy. If they think you could benefit from it, you can then start looking for a provider. The key to a successful ketamine therapy experience is finding the right provider; it’s important to find a facility and staff that makes you feel comfortable throughout the entire process. At Elium Health, we offer ketamine therapy and other mental health treatment methods in a friendly and welcoming environment. To learn more about ketamine or any of our other services, contact our mental health treatment representatives by calling 866-552-3758.

Sources

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications

https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications

https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-ketamine-infusion-therapy-5194302

https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/what-is-ketamine

https://www.mindbloom.com/blog/use-ketamine-treatment-to-stop-using-ssri-snri-maoi-medications-2