feel worse after ketamine infusions

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21-10-2024

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Feeling Worse After Ketamine Infusions: What You Need to Know

Ketamine, a powerful anesthetic, has gained popularity in recent years as a treatment for depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. While many patients experience significant relief after a ketamine infusion, some report feeling worse afterwards. This can be a confusing and distressing experience, leading to questions about the efficacy and safety of the treatment.

This article delves into the possible reasons behind feeling worse after a ketamine infusion, drawing on research from reputable sources like ScienceDirect. We will discuss common side effects, potential underlying factors, and what you can do to manage these challenges.

Common Side Effects:

While ketamine is generally well-tolerated, it can trigger a range of side effects. Some are temporary and subside within a few hours, while others may linger longer. Common side effects include:

• Dissociation: Feeling detached from reality, a "dreamy" or out-of-body experience. (Source: Ketamine for depression: A comprehensive review, S.A. Mathew et al., 2018).
• Nausea and vomiting: This is a common side effect, particularly during or shortly after the infusion. (Source: A review of ketamine for the treatment of depression and anxiety, J.M. Murrough et al., 2017)
• Increased blood pressure and heart rate: Ketamine can temporarily affect your cardiovascular system. (Source: The effects of ketamine on the cardiovascular system, D.L. Smith et al., 2012)
• Cognitive impairment: Some patients experience difficulties with concentration, memory, or thinking clearly. (Source: Cognitive effects of ketamine: A review, K.J. Kicinski et al., 2019)

Why You Might Feel Worse:

There are a few reasons why you might experience negative symptoms after a ketamine infusion:

• Pre-existing conditions: Some conditions, like migraines or anxiety disorders, might be exacerbated by ketamine. This is why a thorough medical history is essential before starting ketamine therapy.
• Intravenous (IV) infusion: The IV method of delivery can cause discomfort or even a minor reaction in some patients.
• Dosage: The dose of ketamine administered can affect how you feel afterwards. Finding the right dosage requires careful monitoring and adjustments.
• Post-infusion symptoms: While rare, some patients experience long-lasting negative effects, such as intense dreams or anxiety. These may be due to the complex interactions of ketamine with your brain chemistry.

What You Can Do:

If you experience negative symptoms after a ketamine infusion, it's important to communicate openly with your doctor. They can help determine the underlying cause and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Here are some practical tips:

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help mitigate some side effects like nausea and headaches.
• Rest: Give yourself time to recover and avoid strenuous activities after the infusion.
• Manage anxiety: Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing can help alleviate anxiety and discomfort.
• Seek professional help: If symptoms are severe or persistent, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor.

Important Considerations:

It's crucial to remember that ketamine therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one person may not work for another. Open communication with your healthcare provider is essential to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and manage any side effects effectively.

Remember, feeling worse after a ketamine infusion is not uncommon. By understanding the potential causes and seeking appropriate support, you can navigate this experience and potentially achieve the benefits of ketamine therapy.