Oral Ketamine Guidelines
Thank you for choosing Klearmind Clinics for your Ketamine Therapy
Now that the initial process of interviews and paperwork is complete, we can proceed with your treatment. We appreciate your trust in us for your mental health and well-being and remind you of the importance of safely securing your oral medications, which are intended solely for your use.
We recognize your commitment to improving your mental health through guided therapy. The guidelines below cover safety, potential side effects, steps for obtaining medication refills, and contact information. Before beginning treatment, please review the signed contract carefully. Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us.
Purpose:
To ensure the safe and effective administration of Ketamine for therapeutic purposes, while providing guidelines to prevent potential adverse effects. Further, to continually evaluate the response to treatment.
Common side effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Loss of appetite
- Increased heart rate
- Blood pressure fluctuations
- Mental confusion or disorientation
Please note that ketamine-induced cystitis, characterized by bladder issues like urinary incontinence and painful urination, is a potential long-term side effect, typically associated with the drug’s chronic misuse.
Contraindications:
Ketamine therapy may not be suitable for individuals with the following conditions:
- Active substance misuse, including prescription medications, alcohol, or illicit drugs.
- History of psychosis.
- Active suicidal ideations or plans.
- Untreated head injury with increased intracranial pressure.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Allergy to Ketamine.
- Prior poor response to Ketamine.
- Poorly controlled blood pressure.
- History of nausea or vomiting.
Learn More About Ketamine
Ketamine is a synthetic medication that was initially used as an adjuvant to anesthetics in the 1960s. It has been used in the Vietnam war to reduce physical pain due to injuries. At higher dosages, it is used in the operating and emergency rooms for surgeries as a large part of an anesthetic regimen.
In the 1970s, Ketamine was approved by the FDA as an anesthetic and since has been used around the world in humans and animals. It is a safe and successful anesthetic used in hospitals, dentist offices, and veterinary and medical clinics since its development.
Within the past several decades years, Ketamine was identified as having beneficial effects on patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Postpartum Depression, Major Depressive Disorder, Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), and Suicidality (need reference).
Depression is the leading cause of disability around the world. In the United States, over 16 million adults experience major depression within the course of a year. Between 1999 and 2016, depression-related suicide rates increased by over 30% (reference).
Frequently Asked Questions
In-Home Ketamine Therapy is a therapeutic approach that combines the use of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, with psychological therapy. It is administered in the comfort and privacy of your own home under the guidance of trained professionals following a thorough on-site evaluation. Ketamine is employed to induce a heightened state of consciousness that can facilitate deep exploration and processing of emotions and memories during therapy sessions. It works by affecting certain receptors in the brain and promoting neuroplasticity, allowing for new insights and healing to occur.
In-Home Ketamine Therapy (IHK), conducted under the supervision of a qualified medical doctor or therapist, holds significant promise in addressing a wide range of mental health conditions. These include treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and substance use disorders. Beyond its therapeutic benefits, In-Home Ketamine Therapy can also foster personal growth, stimulate creativity, and contribute to an overall sense of improved well-being.
At Klearmind Clinics, we offer both IV (intravenous) Ketamine Therapy and Oral Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) options. Here’s a breakdown of the differences:
IV Ketamine Therapy:
- IV Ketamine involves the administration of ketamine through an intravenous line.
- It is conducted in a clinical setting under close medical supervision to ensure safety.
- The onset of effects is usually rapid, leading to a more immediate and potentially intense experience.
Oral Ketamine:
- Oral Ketamine involves the use of ketamine in an oral form, such as tablets or lozenges.
- It is administered under the guidance of our staff in a controlled and supportive environment. This must be done at the Klearmind location.
- The effects of oral ketamine are generally more gradual and milder compared to IV administration.
- Oral Ketamine sessions often provide an opportunity for deeper exploration and processing during the therapeutic process.
The choice between IV Ketamine Therapy and Oral Ketamine depends on various factors, including your specific needs, preferences, and the recommendation of our experienced clinicians. During your initial assessment, our team will discuss the options with you and help determine the most suitable approach for your individual circumstances.
- Nausea: Some individuals may experience feelings of nausea or an upset stomach after taking oral ketamine. The intensity and duration of nausea can vary from person to person. To minimize the likelihood of nausea, it is advisable to take the medication with food or as directed by a healthcare professional. Additionally, at our clinic, we provide oral Zofran (ondansetron) with each oral ketamine prescription upon request, free of charge. Zofran is an anti-nausea medication that can help alleviate any potential nausea associated with the ketamine treatment.
- Dizziness: Another possible side effect of oral ketamine is dizziness or a sense of lightheadedness. This can manifest as feeling unsteady on one’s feet or having difficulty with balance. It is important to exercise caution when moving or engaging in activities that require alertness and coordination to prevent accidents or falls.
The delivery time for your medications typically ranges from 7 to 10 business days, but it can sometimes take up to 2 weeks. The exact delivery time may depend on various factors, such as your location, shipping method, and the pharmacy’s processing time.