We like to share information on ketamine treatments when we see it pop up, especially when they involve treatments that we offer where our patients have seen great success. Recently, Today.com published a short excerpt highlighting the benefits of ketamine as a treatment for chronic resistant depression, suicidal thoughts, and anxiety.
The medication is considered a dissociative anesthetic and has been used for decades as a pain reliever, but more recently, it has been used to also treat depression.
According to the video, ketamine works differently from traditional antidepressants, which can take several weeks to become effective. Ketamine can work within hours or days, and helps people with treatment-resistant depression or those who have not responded to other treatments.
A recent study is cited that found that ketamine reduced suicidal thoughts in patients with depression, and also it improved mood and anxiety levels. We will note that the study’s authors caution that more research is needed as the long-term effects of ketamine on the brain are still unknown.
Many clinics, such as SOMA, offer payment options.
The video also discusses how ketamine treatment can be expensive and is not covered by insurance. We accept Care Credit, offer payment plans, and can work with you to submit claims on your own. We also work with most major insurance companies to cover Spravato© treatments.
Finally, the video includes comments from a psychiatrist who cautions that ketamine is not a “magic bullet” for depression and that patients should work with a mental health professional to determine the best treatment plan for their individual needs.
One thing we emphasize not only to our patients but also our partnering mental health providers is that we do not replace your psychiatrist or therapist. We require a joint effort and will coordinate our treatment plans with your mental health provider to best treat you. Every care plan is unique.
At South Omaha Medical Associates we offer a variety of ketamine treatments, including intranasal Spravato© (Esketamine) and IV ketamine. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (531) 267-0711. We are currently accepting patients for both IV Ketamine treatments and Spravato©. We would also like to announce a second location coming soon near 144th & Center St. in Omaha NE!
