Ketamine is a medication that has been used for decades in medical settings for various purposes, including as an anesthetic. Recently, it has gained popularity for its use in treating treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. However, getting ketamine prescribed can be a complex process that requires careful coordination between you and your healthcare provider.
1. Can Ketamine Be Prescribed?
Yes, ketamine can be prescribed by any medical doctor. However, it is important to note that ketamine is not currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in treating depression unless it is used in a medication called esketamine, which is approved for hard-to-treat depression. Esketamine is given as a nasal spray and is typically prescribed under the supervision of a healthcare provider in a certified doctor's office or clinic.
2. What Is Ketamine Prescribed For?
Ketamine is generally prescribed for pain disorders, depression, and certain psychiatric conditions such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, or posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is also used off-label for various other conditions, including alcohol use disorder, PTSD, and OCD.
3. How to Get Ketamine Prescribed
Getting ketamine prescribed involves several steps, including:
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Consultation with a healthcare provider: Your primary care doctor or mental health provider can refer you to a specialty doctor or clinic for a consult. The referral will detail the nature of your treatment and any previous treatments you may have had.
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Assessment by a Specialist:After your referral, you will undergo a detailed psychological and physical assessment with a psychiatrist, anesthesiologist, or a nurse practitioner. This assessment will consider your medical history, family psychiatric history, current and past medications, and your overall mental health status.
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Clearance for Ketamine Treatment: Depending on your assessment, you may be cleared for ketamine treatment. If you have active suicidal thoughts or have a history of substance abuse, you may not be eligible for treatment.
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Inpatient or Outpatient Treatment: Ketamine can be given as an intravenous (IV) infusion or as a nasal spray. Your treatment plan will depend on the method of administration and your specific needs._IV infusions are typically more intense and are given in a hospital setting, while nasal spray formulations are usually more convenient and can be picked up from a pharmacy. Some clinicians also prescribe compounded ketamine, which is a liquid form that can be taken orally or used with a dropper.
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Cost: Ketamine infusions are typically expensive, and insurance rarely covers the cost. You will likely pay out of pocket for the treatment, which can range from几百到几千美元不等。
4. Risks and Concerns
While ketamine can be effective in treating various mental health conditions, there are some risks and concerns to be aware of:
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Dependency: Ketamine can lead to dependence and tolerance if used over a long period. This can make the drug less effective over time and increase the risk of withdrawal symptoms.
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Complex Side Effects: Ketamine can cause a range of side effects, including derealization, hallucinations, nausea, and vomiting. These effects are generally more common in individuals who are not already familiar with the medication.
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History of Psychiatric Disorders: People with a history of Psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, addiction, or substance abuse may be poor candidates for ketamine treatment.
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Pregnancy and Lactation: There are concerns about the safety of ketamine during pregnancy and lactation, as well as the potential for drug interactions with medications used during pregnancy.
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Cardiovascular Disease: Patients with certain types of cardiovascular disease may need to avoid ketamine due to the risk of hypotension.
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Substance Abuse: Ketamine is a schedule III controlled substance, and its illegal use can lead to addiction and other serious health issues.