In recent years, ketamine has become something of a buzzword among patients looking to treat such conditions as PTSD, depression and anxiety. Ketamine offers a lot of benefits and is sometimes reported as more effective than traditional therapy, particularly for people who have failed to find relief from traditional treatments. But the growing popularity has its drawbacks: The cases of self-administering ketamine at home are rising, and the notion of medical supervision as nonessential is becoming increasingly widespread. That is where the danger lurks: At-home ketamine use without professional oversight carries many risks and side effects, is less effective, and can lead to unpredictable outcomes.
In recent months, these dangers have made front-page news as more details emerge about the tragic death of actor Matthew Perry from the acute effects of ketamine.
The potential complications of at-home ketamine are numerous, but most often problems arise from poor dosage management and the absence of post-consumption supervision—patients simply can’t be both patients and doctors. Self-administration often leads to abuse and misuse. At-home treatment is neither advisable nor desirable, and here’s why.
Key Risks of At-Home Ketamine Treatment
- Lack of Effectiveness
At-home treatments are available as injections or pills. While pills sound appealing, they are generally not bioavailable because they pass through the stomach, where much of the effective ingredients are lost. The amount of ketamine that reaches the bloodstream is very small, rendering this method less efficient and effective than injection. As a result, patients have to wait long time periods to find any relief from the pills, and many give up.
- Safety Concerns and Potential for Misuse
With injections, on the other hand, it can be difficult to get the dosage right, leading to serious and sometimes life-threatening risks. There are many documented cases where a patient has self-administered the wrong dosage, with dangerous consequences.
While injections carry the obvious risk of overdose, pills pose risks as well. Because they require more time to take effect, patients desperate to find relief may consume more than the recommended dose.
Overdosing on ketamine, regardless of the delivery method, can exacerbate side effects such as hallucinations, high blood pressure, and even breathing problems.
Why Medical Oversight Is Essential With Ketamine Treatments
- Avoid Adverse Side Effects
Common side effects of ketamine include dizziness, nausea, increased heart rate and confusion. More severe side effects can include high blood pressure, hallucinations and even respiratory issues.
Medical supervision is crucial to preventing the severe side effects associated with ketamine treatment. Doctors have gone through years of specialized training to learn how to determine each patient’s recommended course of treatment. They know exactly how to best administer the medication, monitor for any issues and respond as needed. At a ketamine clinic like ours, physicians look after the patient and can quickly intervene in case of severe side effects, adjusting the treatment as needed to mitigate risks and ensure safety.
- Receive Just the Right Dosage
Determining the right dosage of ketamine is essential to achieving the maximum therapeutic benefit while minimizing risks. In a clinical setting, doctors use their expertise and experience to administer a precise dosage based on each patient’s specific needs and medical history. As a result, patients receive an effective therapeutic dose with the least amount of risk. The home setting can’t offer the same precision and patients may overdose or discontinue the treatment too early.
- Achieving Optimal Outcomes
While at-home ketamine treatment may seem convenient, the lack of efficacy, safety concerns and a high potential for abuse can make it dangerous rather than helpful. Medical oversight is essential for safe, effective, and optimal treatment outcomes.
At Keta Medical Center, every treatment is supervised by a doctor, and both the dosage and treatment protocol are tailored to ensure the best therapeutic outcomes for each patient. This approach maximizes the effectiveness of the ketamine treatment while maintaining the highest safety standards. Our doctors assess each patient’s progress and make required adjustments in the treatment plan for the best results. This level of individualized care is essential for achieving the full therapeutic potential of ketamine, something that cannot be replicated in an unsupervised home setting.
Don’t Go It Alone
Always consult with a professional when it comes to receiving ketamine therapy. By doing so, you are far more likely to receive a treatment that is safe and effective, providing you with long-term results and a better quality of life.
Book a free consultation at www.ketamc.com.
Dr. Haviva Malina is an emergency medicine physician and co-founder of KETA Medical Center.
