Ketamine for Anxiety

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Does Ketamine Help With Anxiety?

Nearly 30% of people experience anxiety disorders at some point in their lives, making it one of the most common psychological conditions.

Achieving long-term success with treatment can be challenging. While up to 70% respond adequately to diazepam for the first 3-4 weeks, less than two-thirds see remission of symptoms.

As researchers continue to explore alternative treatments for anxiety, preliminary evidence suggests that ketamine may offer relief for patients struggling with this condition.

Patients with depression benefit from ketamine as well, and anxiety is frequently a co-occurring condition in these patients. This overlap may help explain why ketamine has also helped patients suffering from anxiety.

Ketamine for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Ketamine has demonstrated exceptional promise in managing generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), a condition often resistant to traditional therapeutic approaches.

Various studies have shown that patients respond well to lower doses of ketamine. During treatment, patients’ scores decreased on several anxiety ratings, such as HAM-A and CADSS.  

During the maintenance phase of treatment, patients not only experienced reduced anxiety but also showed improved functioning in social and work-related settings. This highlights ketamine’s potential as an alternative for those struggling with GAD.

Ketamine for Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Ketamine for Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) can be a debilitating condition, significantly impacting everyday situations in daily life.

Preliminary evidence has shown ketamine can provide relief for patients compared to a placebo. Studies have indicated a noticeably higher proportion of treatment responders when assessed using the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

Ketamine for Social Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety from Bipolar Disorder

Intravenous ketamine has helped patients with bipolar disorder relieve their anxiety and depression.

Patients can maintain typical treatments such as lithium or valproic acid.

Anxiety from Bipolar Disorder

Possible Side Effects

Ketamine is generally well tolerated by most people. At full doses, ketamine works as an analgesic. At lower doses, ketamine can help with a variety of conditions with relatively low side effects.

Some side effects experienced by ketamine users were:
  • Dissociative symptoms
  • Mild elevations in pulse and blood pressure
  • Dizziness
  • Blurry vision
  • Headache
  • Restlessness

These side effects will usually end if ketamine use is stopped. Additionally, the side effects do not persist long-term.

Ketamine does not cause cravings or addiction in patients.

Side Effects
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Learn More About Ketamine

Our compounding pharmacy can give you the information and assistance you need if you’re looking for more information about ketamine therapy. Our experienced pharmacists can guide you through the process of starting ketamine for anxiety.

We value our patients and prioritize their health and healthcare outcomes. Please don’t hesitate to contact our pharmacists.

You can also text us directly here:
Littleton: 303-707-1500
Cherry Creek: 303-333-2010

Or send us a message on social media! Follow us and get a peek at how we make our medications in the lab.

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