Ketamine Nasal Spray
(intranasal ketamine)
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What is ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine)?
Ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) is a medication that is administered through the nose. It delivers a controlled dose of ketamine, a psychedelic medicine, that can help with conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, addictions and other mood disorders.
How does ketamine nasal spray work?
Ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) works by being absorbed through the nasal mucosa, quickly entering the bloodstream. It then acts on certain receptors in the brain, leading to changes in mood and perception.
What is ketamine nasal spray used for?
Ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) is used to treat conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, addictions, eating disorders and other mental health conditions. Intranasal ketamine is a promising option to many patients who may not see the results they would like from other forms of depression medication.
Is ketamine nasal spray safe?
Ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) is safe when used under professional medical supervision and according to prescribed dosage guidelines. Self-administration or misuse of ketamine can pose significant risks and may lead to adverse effects.
Is ketamine nasal spray addictive?
When used properly under medical supervision as a treatment for approved indications, ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) is not addictive. However, individuals with a history of substance use disorder may be at higher risk of misusing ketamine nasal spray. We do a complete medical intake covering the patient’s history before beginning treatment.
What is the protocol for intranasal ketamine treatment at Nushama?
At Nushama, we implement well-studied protocols for intranasal ketamine which suggest 6 treatments over the course of 3 weeks (2x per week).
Are additional maintenance sessions required after I complete the initial protocol for intranasal ketamine treatment?
You will work with your medical provider to determine if any maintenance sessions are required beyond the initial protocol. Many patients opt to continue treatment on a weekly or bi-weekly basis following the completion of the protocol.
How long does ketamine nasal spray last?
The effects of ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) typically last for about 1.5 to 2 hours. After your session at Nushama, we’ll guide you through gentle breathwork and then monitor you before being released.
How long does ketamine nasal spray take to work?
Ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) often starts to work within minutes of administration, with users beginning to feel its effects relatively quickly.
Can I eat before my intranasal ketamine treatment?
It is recommended not to eat at least 2 hours before your intranasal ketamine treatment to optimize its effectiveness.
Can I drive home after intranasal ketamine treatment?
No. You must have a chaperone to take you home or schedule a ride with a ride-share app like Uber or Lyft.
Is a referral necessary for intranasal ketamine treatment?
No. But it is required that you have a virtual medical intake with one of our medical providers before starting treatment.
What does ketamine nasal spray feel like?
Ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) can produce various sensastions depending on the individual, due to factors such as dosage and personal tolerance. Here’s an idea of what intransal ketamine might feel like:
Altered Perception:
– Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic. Users may experience a sense of detachment from their surroundings which can lead to altered perceptions of time, space, and one’s own body.
Euphoria:
– Users may experience feelings of euphoria and an improved sense of well-being.
Changes in Body Sensation:
– Users may feel a sense of weightlessness or a disconnection from their physical body. Some report a feeling of floating or “out-of-body” experiences.
Numbness:
– Ketamine is known for its analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Users may experience a numbing or tingling sensation.
Changes in Thought Patterns:
– Ketamine can alter thought patterns and cognitive functioning. Some users describe a feeling of “mind expansion” or a shift in their perception of reality.
Dizziness and Lack of Coordination:
– Users may experience dizziness, lack of coordination, or difficulty with motor skills.
Should I continue treatment with my therapist after intranasal ketamine treatment?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to continue attending therapy sessions. While we’re here to support your healing, a network of mental health support often leads to the most successful outcomes.
How much does intranasal ketamine treatment cost?
Our 6-treatment protocol is $1,800 and our medical intake is $350 – totalling $2,150.
Each individual treatment beyond the initial protocol will be billed at $300.
Treatment includes free group integration therapy offered twice per week and an eye mask.
Is ketamine nasal spray the same as Spravato (esketamine)?
Ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) and Spravato (esketamine) are similar in that they are both adjunct treatments for mood disorders. However, Spravato is only FDA-approved for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) and Major Depressive Disorder with Suicidal Ideation (MDSI).
If you have another diagnosis, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, or any other mood disorder, you will not qualify for Spravato but you may qualify for intranasal ketamine.
Is intranasal ketamine treatment a full psychedelic experience?
Ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine), at the doses administered at Nushama, is not a full psychedelic experience in the way that IV (intravenous) ketamine is. We consider it to be a gentler introduction to the psychedelic experience.
How does ketamine nasal spray compare with IV (intravenous) ketamine infusion?
Ketamine nasal spray and intravenous (IV) infusion both deliver ketamine but differ in administration method. Nasal spray is less invasive, with a shorter duration of action, while IV infusion provides a longer-lasting effect and is considered the gold standard of ketamine therapy because of its consistency. The choice depends on individual needs and preferences.
Can ketamine nasal spray be taken at home?
No. Ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) must be done under professional medical supervision to ensure safety.
Who should not receive intranasal ketamine treatment?
Individuals may not be eligible for intranasal ketamine therapy if they:
– Are pregnant
– Have uncontrolled hypertension
– Have acute cardiovascular disease
– Had a previous negative response to ketamine therapy
– Have a history of psychosis, schizophrenia , substance abuse, or increased intracranial pressure
– Active mania or unstable bipolar affective disorder
– Certain personality disorders
We do a complete medical intake covering the patient’s history before beginning treatment to ensure that they are a candidate and will not experience adverse effects.
Can I use ketamine nasal spray while taking antidepressants?
Yes, ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) can be used alongside antidepressants. Our physicians on staff do a complete medical intake before beginning treatment to assess any current medications being taken.
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