Ketamine is a type of anaesthetic or analgesic drug that has been developed and widely used in the medical field since the 1960s. Though it has a hallucinogenic side effect, experts have increasingly conducted studies and tests to develop ketamine infusion therapy in specialized clinics to save the lives of high-risk patients with depression.
Studies have also revealed that ketamine infusion therapy may work for neuropathic pain conditions, such as chronic headaches or migraines. In fact, a clinical trial conducted by experts from Thomas Jefferson University and sanctioned by the U.S. government is currently in its early phase to determine the viability of ketamine infusion as a migraine cure with minimal side effects.
Understanding the Pain of Migraines
A migraine is a severe form of headache characterized by a throbbing or pulsating pain that occurs on the temples. According to the American Migraine Foundation, one billion people all over the world suffer from this debilitating condition. It is the third most prevalent illness and the sixth most disabling illness in the world.
About four million people suffer from chronic migraines, with an average of 15 migraine attacks a month. As a result, the overuse of medication is quite common. While preventive and anti-nausea drugs may help the patient, it comes with unwanted side effects.
Most Effective Treatment for Migraines in Gainesville Pain Center
Over-the-counter pain relievers, nasal sprays, vitamin B2 supplements, and anti-nausea medication are just some of the most common migraine pain relief. Some patients also undergo a lifestyle change to minimize and manage the migraine triggers better.
But when the migraine episodes become more frequent, unbearable, and can no longer be alleviated with common treatments or painkillers, then a ketamine infusion therapy in Advanced Pain Management Gainesville may be more effective.
A small study in The Journal Of Headache and Pain shows that this treatment has delivered short-term improvements for the 61 individuals who were suffering from refractory chronic migraines.
Apparently, since ketamine is an N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonist, it can work as potent analgesia that can alleviate chronic pain and headaches. It can help tone down the “hyperexcitability” of the hormones or cells that may be associated with chronic pain.
Side Effects of Ketamine Infusion Therapy
Ketamine infusion therapy for patients with chronic migraines must be administered at the hospital or clinics like Gainesville Pain Center since this has to be properly monitored by a professional to avoid any complications. The beneficial effects of the infusion can last 30 to 100 days after the hospitalization. In the small study, 40 percent of the patients responded to the therapy positively on the first infusion, while the maximum improvement of the migraine attacks was felt after 4 infusions.
Because of its reputation as a hallucinogenic drug, doctors in Advanced Pain Medical Center know too well that ketamine’s use as a pain medication must be controlled. However, there have been very few reported incidents of ketamine infusion therapy side effects, apart from an “out of body experience” or hallucinations. This procedure is generally safe when administered by an expert who understands that low and slow doses must be given to chronic migraine patients.
Learn more about Advanced Pain Medical Center – Gainesville Pain Center
Advanced Pain Medical Center is a pain clinic that offers services, such as innovative medical marijuana solutions, pain management and regenerative medicine. If you suffer from chronic pain such as migraines, schedule an appointment with our pain doctor in Gainesville today!
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The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
