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Discover what disqualifies you from ketamine therapy. Learn how Ketamine Wellness NY can help you explore your options for better mental health.

What Disqualifies You From Ketamine Therapy?

Ketamine is being used as a treatment for many mental health conditions. And, it’s getting attention from both the medical community and patients.

The problem is that, in some cases, traditional treatment doesn’t work for those with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. For many, ketamine is an alternative to help treat those conditions since it can provide faster results (typically within the hour) and more effective results.

Many clinics in New York (and worldwide) have specialized in this therapy and offer customized treatment plans for each patient’s specific needs and medical history.

But is everyone eligible for ketamine therapy?

Knowing the eligibility criteria for ketamine therapy is important for those considering this new approach so you get the right care for your situation.
In this blog post, we will go over the key factors that will disqualify (and qualify) you from ketamine therapy.

Key Takeaways

  • Ketamine is a treatment for mental health conditions for people with depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
  • Understanding the eligibility criteria is key to getting ketamine therapy so you get the right care for your condition.
  • Some criteria that will disqualify you from ketamine therapy include having cardiovascular conditions, a history of substance abuse, severe psychiatric disorders, and liver and kidney issues.

Who Can Benefit From Ketamine Therapy

Before we get into who can benefit from ketamine therapy, let’s define what ketamine therapy is.

Ketamine therapy involves using ketamine, an anesthetic, to treat conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain (1). The results are impressive, especially for those who have tried traditional treatments and have not responded.

Researchers have found that ketamine can “reboot” the brain’s neural pathways, create new connections, and overall improve mental health (2). This mechanism of action makes ketamine a powerful tool in the fight against mental conditions.

To get ketamine therapy, patients must meet certain criteria. Generally, the best candidates are those with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and chronic pain syndromes.

Remember, all of the above conditions must be diagnosed by a qualified medical professional who can confirm that the patient is a good candidate for ketamine therapy.

Additionally, to qualify for ketamine therapy, patients must have tried other treatments without success. This includes multiple medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.

So, by the time people are considering ketamine therapy, they have exhausted all other “solutions” and are looking for a last resort.

Also, a thorough medical evaluation is necessary to ensure safety. Your healthcare provider will need to review your overall health, including any existing medical conditions and current medications, before recommending ketamine therapy.

Factors That Will Disqualify You From Ketamine Therapy

While ketamine therapy is hope for many, there are specific disqualifying factors.

  1. Cardiovascular conditions. Those with severe heart disease or uncontrolled hypertension may be disqualified due to the cardiovascular effects of ketamine. These conditions need to be managed before therapy.

  2. History of substance abuse. Those with a history of substance abuse, especially ketamine or other dissociative drugs, may not be eligible. The risk of misuse and dependency needs to be screened.

  3. Severe psychiatric disorders. Certain psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder may contraindicate ketamine therapy. The treatment can worsen symptoms in these patients.

  4. Pregnancy and nursing. Pregnant or nursing women should avoid ketamine therapy until more research confirms the safety in these populations.

  5. Unstable medical conditions. Any unstable medical condition that requires immediate attention will disqualify a patient from ketamine therapy. These include acute respiratory distress, active infections, or recent surgery complications.

  6. Liver and kidney issues. Severe liver or kidney disease can make ketamine therapy risky as these organs are involved in metabolizing and excreting the drug.

  7. Medical interactions. Ketamine can interact with many medications, altering its effects or increasing the risk of adverse reactions.

  8. Negative reactions to ketamine. Some people may have a negative reaction to ketamine, experiencing side effects like hallucinations, confusion, or dissociation. These reactions vary depending on the person’s mental health status and previous experiences with similar substances.

Healthcare providers must inform patients of the risks and benefits and the legality of ketamine in their area. This is crucial to promote ethical practice in mental health.

If you have any further questions or need clarification on any other disqualifying criteria for ketamine therapy, please reach out to us. We will gladly guide you through this process!

Be Honest With Your Healthcare Provider

Before starting ketamine therapy, consider the following points to get the most out of the treatment.

  1. Share current medications. Tell your provider about all medications (even over-the-counter) you are taking. Some medications can interact with ketamine and affect its effectiveness and safety.

  2. Current and past medical history. Your full medical history, including past surgeries, chronic conditions, and previous medication responses, will help inform your treatment plan.

Final Words

Ketamine therapy is helpful for many with severe mental health conditions. However, not everyone is suitable to get it.

By knowing the disqualifying criteria and being open with your provider, you can make informed decisions about your treatment.

In the NYC, Queens, and Long Island areas, Ketamine Wellness NY offers affordable prices and expert care. Our board-certified physician, Dr. Pervaiz Qureshi, has years of experience and a passion for helping patients be their best.

Call or text us today to book your appointment and get $100 off your first IV. Start your journey to better mental health today!

References

  1. Walsh, Zach, et al. “Ketamine for the Treatment of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders: Comprehensive Systematic Review.” BJPsych Open, vol. 8, no. 1, 23 Dec. 2021, www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/36E261BFA62CDA6459B88F7777415FDA/S2056472421010619a.pdf/ketamine-for-the-treatment-of-mental-health-and-substance-use-disorders-comprehensive-systematic-review.pdf, https://doi.org/10.1192/bjo.2021.1061.

  2. Wu, Hao, et al. “Ketamine for a Boost of Neural Plasticity: How, but Also When?” Biological Psychiatry, vol. 89, no. 11, June 2021, pp. 1030–1032, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsych.2021.03.014.

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