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How does Ketamine help in the management of pain?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 37-year-old male. May I know some information about Ketamine? What role does ketamine play in chronic pain management? How does Ketamine help in the management of depression and anxiety? Are there potential side effects or contraindications that I need to be aware of?

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Albana Greca

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Albana Greca is a dedicated family physician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for patients of all ages. She focuses on preventive care, accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans to support long-term health and well-being. Dr. Greca has experience managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including lifestyle-related health concerns and routine family healthcare needs. Known for her caring and approachable nature, she believes in building strong patient relationships through clear communication and trust. Her goal is to help individuals and families achieve better health outcomes through evidence-based, patient-centered care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Ketamine is a medication primarily used for anesthesia and pain management. In chronic pain management, ketamine can be administered via various routes, including intravenous infusion or oral or topical formulations, to alleviate neuropathic pain and central sensitization. In the treatment of depression and anxiety, ketamine has gained attention for its rapid-acting antidepressant effects.

It works by blocking NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors and enhancing synaptic plasticity in the brain. Ketamine infusion therapy has shown promising results, particularly for treatment-resistant depression and acute suicidal ideation. However, it is essential to be aware of potential side effects and contraindications, including dissociation, hallucinations, increased blood pressure, and risk of dependence or misuse. Ketamine should be administered under medical supervision, and its use requires careful monitoring, especially in individuals with a history of substance abuse or certain medical conditions.

I hope this answers your questions.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At July 10, 2024
Reviewed At July 10, 2024

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Albana Greca is a dedicated family physician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for patients of all ages. She focuses on preventive care, accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans to support long-term health and well-being. Dr. Greca has experience managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including lifestyle-related health concerns and routine family healthcare needs. Known for her caring and approachable nature, she believes in building strong patient relationships through clear communication and trust. Her goal is to help individuals and families achieve better health outcomes through evidence-based, patient-centered care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Albana Greca is a dedicated family physician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for patients of all ages. She focuses on preventive care, accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans to support long-term health and well-being. Dr. Greca has experience managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including lifestyle-related health concerns and routine family healthcare needs. Known for her caring and approachable nature, she believes in building strong patient relationships through clear communication and trust. Her goal is to help individuals and families achieve better health outcomes through evidence-based, patient-centered care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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