When we have discussions about ketamine therapy with our clients at Illuminate, it’s very common for them to ask questions based on misconceptions regarding ketamine. That’s because much of what people hear about the drug comes from media sources that are more interested in views and clicks than they are in accurate reporting.
Below are examples of some of the most prevalent misinformation the team at Illuminate encounters and how we share the truth about ketamine therapy with our clients.
Stigma: Ketamine is Really an Animal Tranquilizer
Reality: While it is true that ketamine is used in veterinary practices as an anesthetic, a common myth that it was developed as a horse tranquilizer isn’t true. Ketamine has been used for many years in hospitals across the U.S. as an anesthetic for patients with respiratory problems that put them at risk during surgery. More recently, ketamine has been used therapeutically to achieve outstanding results in treating mental health conditions and chronic pain. Keep in mind that many other medications used in veterinary medicine commonly used for human medical treatments, including anti-inflammatories and antibiotics, so the “horse tranquilizer” labels don’t really carry any weight.
Stigma: Ketamine is a ‘Club Drug’
Reality: While it is true that ketamine is used and abused recreationally by thousands of people worldwide, it is not true that it’s only a club drug. In reality, medical-grade ketamine therapy is administered in a controlled setting by trained professionals. The dosages and protocols used in therapy are drastically different from recreational use.
Stigma: Ketamine is Addictive
Reality: Ketamine addiction is extremely rare, and the drug has not been linked to any type of physical dependence. Ketamine is a rapidly metabolized and easily cleared by the body in about three hours. It’s mechanism of action is also different from opioids because it doesn’t involve the serotoninergic and dopaminergic processes that are linked to pleasure and addiction. Therapeutic doses for treatment of mental illnesses or chronic pain are also significantly lower than those associated with recreational use, so addiction is not a risk.
Stigma: Ketamine Can Cause Bladder Problems
Reality: Bladder problems, primarily ketamine-associated ulcerative cystitis, isn’t an issue for therapeutic doses used for ketamine therapy. This disorder occurs in individuals who use large, uncontrolled doses of ketamine over long periods of time. Doses administered in ketamine therapy are much lower and are only given for a period of a few weeks. Additionally, medically trained staff closely monitors doses and side effects during treatment.
Stigma: There’s a Lack of Research to Support Ketamine Therapy
Reality: Critics often argue that ketamine therapy lacks scientific support, but there are many studies from respected medical journals, universities, and government-funded health publications that show its effectiveness. A few of the key questions that remain regarding ketamine therapy that continue to be researched are related to the mechanism behind what makes it effective and why some individuals benefit more than others.
Stigma: Ketamine Therapy Only Provides Short-Term Relief:
Reality: Ketamine therapy is just one piece of an individual’s overall treatment plan for their mental health or chronic pain. That’s why administration of the drug and patient care before and after ketamine treatment is the key to optimizing long-term, positive results. Everyone is different, so patients follow different protocols to reach their goals. The key is preparation and aftercare to enhance ketamine therapy’s extended benefits.
While myths and stigmas persist, the success ketamine therapy has in treating a wide range of mental health and chronic pain conditions is turning the tide in terms of how it’s perceived by the public. At Illuminate IV, our team is ready to answer your questions and address any concerns you have regarding treatment. Contact us today for a free consultation and we can have an honest conversation about how ketamine therapy may be a viable option to improve your physical and mental health.
