Ketamine infusion therapy is a treatment for a number of conditions including, CRPS, PTSD, depression and anxiety. However, myths still circulate about the treatment making some patients not seek care when it can be of benefit because it is often misunderstood. Like any drug, ketamine can be dangerous when it is abused for recreational use and taken in high doses. However, when administered by a physician in a safe setting, ketamine can offer valuable benefits.
Here are some of the common myths Dr. Saranita and Dr. Paez have answered regarding ketamine.
Myth 1: Some people say that ketamine is used for horses as a horse tranquilizer and not for humans, is this true?
Dr. Saranita shares, "The street name for ketamine is known as "Special K" which has come to be known as a horse tranquilizer. While ketamine is used in veterinary medicine as an anesthetic, it is also used in human anesthesia. The difference is that the doses on large animals like horses surpass the doses used in human treatment. When ketamine is labeled as a "horse tranquilizer" it conjures up imagery of a dangerous drug that can knock out a horse or a person. Ketamine is safely used in both surgical and office settings for humans when adminstered by a physician in a safe setting.
Myth 2: Treatment of ketamine can lead to addiction.
Dr. Paez shares, "While ketamine is not physically addictive, it can like many drugs be psychologically addictive when it is abused for recreational usage. However, when administered by a physician in a controlled setting we administer safe dosages to treat the condition without administering in a dose or frequency that would create dependency."
Myth 3: Ketamine is harmful to your body.
Dr. Saranita shares, "Like many drugs due to its association with recreational use there is a myth that receiving ketamine infusions could be harmful to your health. Any drug can potentially be harmful with risks and benefits. However, the more serious effects of ketamine such as loss of consciousness and psychosis occur when large doses are used in unsafe conditions without physician supervision. When a physician is overseeing the administration of ketamine these severe effects are not experienced.
Lastly, Dr. Paez shares, "Ketamine infusions for many patients are breakthrough treatments. It is important for us to educate our people on the safety and risks of ketamine use and abuse. We encourage you to speak with your provider to learn more about ketamine and whether it might be right for you."
