Who is a Good Candidate for Ketamine Assisted Therapy? Exploring the Potential of Ketamine Lozenges in Treating Mental Disorders
Over the past few decades, the demand for novel and more effective mental health treatments has been increasing as conventional treatments are no unable to offer relief to those suffering from treatment resistant disorders.
One such promising treatment that is gaining significant traction in clinical settings is ketamine assisted psychotherapy. This therapy involves patients taking a dose of sublingual ketamine paired with psychotherapy sessions to facilitate healing and symptom relief.
While effective, not everyone is a good candidate for this treatment, read on to find out who is a good candidate for ketamine assisted therapy.
Emergence of ketamine in mental health treatment
Research studies and clinical trials
The discovery of ke tamine’s antidepressant effects can be traced back to the 1990s when researchers started investigating its potential use in treating depression. Early studies demonstrated that low doses of ketamine could produce rapid and sustained antidepressant effects in patients with treatment-resistant depression (Berman et al., 2000; Zarate et al., 2006).
Since then, numerous clinical trials have supported its efficacy in treating other mental health conditions, such as PTSD (Feder et al., 2014) and OCD (Rodriguez et al., 2013).
How ketamine assisted therapy works
Ketamine assisted therapy involves administering doses of ketamine, typically through an intravenous (IV) infusion, intranasal spray, or sublingually in the form of a lozenge in a controlled clinical setting under the supervision of a mental health professional. The ketamine administration is combined with psychotherapy to promote healing of synaptic connections and symptom relief.
Ketamine is believed to work by blocking the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation and synaptic plasticity. This action leads to the release of growth factors that promote the formation of new synaptic connections, ultimately enhancing neural plasticity and improving mood (Duman et al., 2016).
The role of a mental health professional
A mental health professional’s (e.g. psychiatrist, therapist) involvement is vital during ketamine assisted therapy to ensure patient safety, monitor the patient’s response to the treatment, and provide therapeutic support throughout the process. The professional may also assist in integrating the patient’s experiences during the ketamine session into their ongoing therapy, helping them gain insights and develop new coping strategies.
The journey
Ketamine assisted therapy typically involves a series of treatment sessions, with the number and frequency of sessions determined by the patient’s needs and response to the therapy. A single session usually lasts for a few hours, including the time needed for ketamine administration, the patient’s experience under the influence of ketamine, and a debriefing period with the mental health professional.
Ketamine Lozenges: A Promising Alternative
What are ketamine lozenges?
Ketamine lozenges are an innovative formulation of ketamine, designed for oral administration. These lozenges contain a lower dose of ketamine compared to intravenous or intranasal administration methods and offer a more convenient and accessible option for patients seeking ketamine assisted therapy.
In a session, the patient places the lozenge under their tongue and let’s it dissolve over the course of 20 minutes to ingest the appropriate dose. As the effects set in, the therapist or guide will navigate the patient through the journey.
Advantages of ketamine lozenges compared to alternatives
At-home administration
One of the main benefits of ketamine lozenges is the potential for at-home administration under the guidance of a mental health professional. This allows patients to receive treatment in the comfort of their own homes, reducing the need for frequent clinic visits and potentially lowering the overall cost of treatment.
Lower doses and side effects
Ketamine lozenges contain a lower dose of ketamine compared to other administration methods, which may result in fewer side effects and a more tolerable experience for patients.
Additionally, the oral administration allows for a slower absorption of the drug, providing a more gradual and controlled release of ketamine into the bloodstream.
Studies supporting the use of ketamine lozenges
Research on ketamine lozenges is still in its early stages, but preliminary studies have shown promising results. A pilot study by Lara et al. (2013) found that oral ketamine was effective in reducing depressive symptoms in patients with treatment-resistant depression.
While more extensive research is needed to fully understand the potential of ketamine lozenges in treating mental health disorders, initial findings indicate that they may be a valuable alternative to traditional ketamine assisted therapy.
Identifying Good Candidates for Ketamine Assisted Therapy
Criteria for a good candidate
Treatment-resistant mental health disorders
Ketamine assisted therapy is primarily aimed at individuals suffering from mental health disorders that have not responded to conventional treatments, such as antidepressants or psychotherapy. These patients may have tried multiple treatment approaches without significant improvement in their symptoms, making them ideal candidates for ketamine assisted therapy.
Adequate physical health
Before considering ketamine assisted therapy, it is essential to ensure that a patient is in good physical health. Potential candidates should undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including a review of their medical history and any current medications, to identify any contraindications or potential complications.
Informed consent and realistic expectations
Good candidates for ketamine assisted therapy should be well-informed about the treatment process, its potential benefits and risks, and any possible side effects. They should also have realistic expectations regarding the outcomes of the therapy, understanding that it may not work for everyone and that additional treatment sessions may be required to achieve the desired results.
Mental health disorders that may benefit from ketamine assisted therapy
Major depressive disorder
Research has consistently shown that ketamine assisted therapy can be effective in treating major depressive disorder, particularly in patients who have not responded to traditional treatments.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Ketamine assisted therapy has also been shown to be effective in alleviating symptoms of PTSD, with some studies reporting rapid and sustained improvements in patients who had not responded to conventional treatments (Feder et al., 2014).
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Preliminary research suggests that ketamine assisted therapy may be beneficial for patients with OCD who have not responded to traditional therapies (Rodriguez et al., 2013).
Other conditions under investigation
Researchers are currently exploring the potential of ketamine assisted therapy in treating other mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and substance use disorders. While more research is needed, early findings suggest that ketamine assisted therapy may have broader applications in the field of mental health.
Factors that may exclude someone from ketamine assisted therapy
Certain medical conditions
Individuals with specific medical conditions, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disease, or a history of seizures, may not be suitable candidates for ketamine assisted therapy due to potential risks and complications.
Other contraindications
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those with a history of severe allergic reactions to ketamine or related medications should avoid ketamine assisted therapy.
Our Ketamine Assisted Therapy Clinic in Los Angeles
Overview of our clinic
State-of-the-art facility
Our ketamine assisted therapy clinic in Los Angeles is a modern, state-of-the-art facility designed to provide the highest level of care to patients seeking relief from treatment-resistant mental health disorders. Our experienced team of mental health professionals and clinicians work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and circumstances.
Comprehensive care
We offer a comprehensive range of services, including initial consultations, medical evaluations, ketamine infusions, and ketamine lozenge therapy. Our clinic is dedicated to providing safe and effective treatment options for patients struggling with mental health disorders that have not responded to traditional therapies.
Experienced mental health providers
Our team consists of experienced mental health providers, including psychiatrists, and licensed therapists. These professionals have extensive experience and knowledge of ketamine assisted therapy and are dedicated to helping patients find relief from their symptoms.
What to expect during treatment
Thorough assessment
Prior to beginning ketamine assisted therapy, patients undergo a thorough consultation to determine their suitability for treatment. This assessment includes a review of medical history, current medications, and any contraindications to ketamine therapy.
Personalized treatment plans
Our team of professionals works closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account their specific needs and goals. Treatment plans may include a combination of ketamine infusions and/or ketamine lozenges, as well as ongoing monitoring and follow-up care.
Comfort and safety
Our clinic prioritizes patient comfort and safety throughout the entire treatment process. We provide a welcoming, supportive environment where patients can relax and focus on their healing journey.
Who is a Good Candidate for Ketamine Assisted Therapy in Los Angeles
Ketamine assisted therapy has emerged as a promising treatment option for individuals suffering from treatment-resistant mental health disorders, including major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. With its rapid onset of action and the potential for sustained symptom relief, ketamine assisted therapy offers new hope for those struggling with these debilitating conditions.
Our ketamine assisted therapy clinic in Los Angeles is dedicated to providing the highest level of care to patients seeking relief from treatment-resistant mental health disorders. Our state-of-the-art facility, experienced team of professionals, and personalized approach to treatment ensure that our patients receive the support and guidance they need to achieve the best possible outcomes.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a treatment-resistant mental health disorder, we invite you to explore the potential benefits of ketamine assisted therapy at Psychedelica Collective. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation with our team of mental health professionals.