Ketamine is a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist that has traditionally been used for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia. It has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia, although it is also being used for the management of psychiatric disorders and chronic pain management. Unlike opioids, it is not associated with any physically addictive properties. When Ketamine is administered in a very controlled manner, it triggers a sequence of events in the brain that regenerates damaged neurons.
Ketamine is a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist that has traditionally been used for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia. It has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia, although it is also being used for the management of psychiatric disorders and chronic pain management. Unlike opioids, it is not associated with any physically addictive properties. When Ketamine is administered in a very controlled manner, it triggers a sequence of events in the brain that regenerates damaged neurons.
Research has shown that a series of six infusions given every other day over a 2-3-week period can produce optimal outcomes. Ketamine infusion decreases the symptoms of depression in approximately 60-70 percent of all patients who receive it.Often after the fifth to sixth treatment, some patients feel an overall better sense of well-being, which can include change in mood, and improvement in daily functionality.
The duration of effect is very individual and can last anywhere from 2-3 weeks to 3 months, and beyond. The booster maintenance phase is different for each patient. After the first induction dose of 6 treatments, we begin to assess for maintenance booster treatment intervals, which are varied.
We check a set of baseline vital signs, such as your blood pressure, heart rate, oxygenation, and your weight. We start an intravenous (IV) line and begin the infusion, which takes about 45-60 minutes. During this time we keep the environment private, quiet, and relaxing. We do monitor you intermittently throughout the infusion. You may listen to your own choice of soothing music.
Ketamine is not covered by insurance. We accept cash pay only.
The first and only NMDA receptor antagonist approved for 2 subtypes of MDD in adult patients.
Induction dose of 4 sessions and maintenance dose from 5 to 9 sessions at least. Best result was achieved when patients continued treatment for a minimum of 12wks.
When you arrive for your appointment, you spray each nostril, and will be monitored for 2 hours at the clinic. The cost of the drug and treatment including but not limited to monitoring will be submitted to your insurance company. The drug is to be administered 2 times per week for 4 weeks, then 1 time per week for another 4 weeks and then tapered to every other week, or weekly depending on your response.
If you would like to learn more about Ketamine/Spravato, please call 410-823-6408 or
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Psych Associates of Maryland provides comprehensive psychiatric services by a group of competent, independent practitioners. We diagnose and treat children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
