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Are you suffering from depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions that have not responded well to traditional treatments? Ketamine therapy may be the solution you need. At Nao Medical, we offer ketamine as part of our comprehensive mental health services. Here are some frequently asked questions about this therapy:
What is ketamine therapy?
Ketamine therapy is a type of treatment that uses a low dose of ketamine, a medication that has been used for decades as a surgical anesthetic and pain reliever, to treat mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
How does ketamine therapy work?
While the exact mechanism of how ketamine works is still being studied, it is believed to help improve mood by promoting the growth of new neural connections in the brain. Ketamine also acts on certain receptors in the brain that are involved in regulating mood, leading to a rapid improvement in symptoms for many patients.
What are the benefits of ketamine?
Ketamine has been shown to be effective in treating treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. It has a rapid onset of action, with many patients experiencing an improvement in symptoms within hours to days of starting treatment. Ketamine also has a low risk of addiction and dependence compared to other medications used to treat mental health conditions.
What should I expect during a ketamine therapy session?
A ketamine therapy session typically lasts between 45 and 60 minutes. During the session, you will receive a low dose of ketamine via an intravenous (IV) infusion. You will be closely monitored by our trained medical staff throughout the session to ensure your safety and comfort. After the session, you may feel a mild dissociative effect, which typically lasts for about an hour. You should not drive or operate heavy machinery for 24 hours after the session.
How many ketamine sessions will I need?
The number of ketamine sessions you will need depends on your individual needs and the severity of your symptoms. Many patients experience significant improvement in symptoms after just one or two sessions, while others may require multiple sessions over several weeks to achieve optimal results.
Is ketamine therapy covered by insurance?
While this therapy is a relatively new treatment for mental health conditions, some insurance companies do cover the cost of treatment. At Nao Medical, we accept most major insurance plans and offer competitive pricing for those without insurance. We also offer a variety of payment options to make treatment affordable for all patients.
Is ketamine therapy safe?
Ketamine therapy is generally safe when administered by a trained medical professional in a clinical setting. However, as with any medication, there are some risks and potential side effects associated with ketamine. These can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Our medical staff will closely monitor you during the session to minimize these risks and ensure your safety.
How do I get started with ketamine therapy at Nao Medical?
If you are interested in ketamine therapy or have any questions about the treatment, the first step is to schedule a consultation with one of our mental health professionals. During the consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals with the provider, who will determine if ketamine is an appropriate treatment option for you.
If you decide to proceed with ketamine, our medical staff will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs and goals. We will also provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for each session and what to expect during and after treatment.
Conclusion
Ketamine therapy is a promising new treatment for depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions that have not responded well to traditional treatments. At Nao Medical, we offer ketamine therapy as part of our comprehensive mental health services and are committed to providing high-quality, affordable care to our patients. If you are interested in ketamine therapy or have any questions about the treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact us to book an appointment.
FAQs
Q: Is ketamine therapy right for me?
A: Ketamine therapy may be an appropriate treatment option if you have not responded well to traditional treatments for depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions. However, ketamine is not recommended for everyone, and it is important to discuss your individual needs and goals with a mental health professional before starting treatment.
Q: Is ketamine addictive?
A: Ketamine has a low risk of addiction and dependence compared to other medications used to treat mental health conditions. However, it is important to follow your provider’s instructions and not to exceed the recommended dosage or frequency of treatment.
Q: How long do the effects of ketamine therapy last?
A: The duration of the effects of ketamine therapy can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their symptoms. Many patients experience a rapid improvement in symptoms after just one or two sessions, while others may require multiple sessions over several weeks to achieve optimal results.
Q: Are there any side effects of ketamine?
A: Like any medication, ketamine can have side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and changes in blood pressure and heart rate. However, these side effects are generally mild and short-lived and can be minimized by closely monitoring patients during the session.
Q: Is ketamine therapy covered by insurance?
A: While ketamine therapy is a relatively new treatment for mental health conditions, some insurance companies do cover the cost of treatment. At Nao Medical, we accept most major insurance plans and offer competitive pricing for those without insurance.
