Book now

Ketamine Use Disclaimer

Ketamine is a dissociative class medication classified as a Schedule III-controlled substance. It is predominantly used in emergency departments and operating rooms as an anesthetic medication. The FDA has approved ketamine for anesthesia and pain relief during procedures. However, ketamine is not FDA-approved for treating depression, PTSD, acute or chronic pain, or any other conditions outside of anesthesia and procedural pain relief.

Off-Label Use

The use of ketamine for conditions such as depression, PTSD, and chronic pain is considered “off-label” by the FDA. This means that while the FDA has approved ketamine for anesthesia in medical settings, it has not approved its use for these specific treatments. Off-label use is common; a significant percentage of medications prescribed in the United States are for off-label uses.

Efficacy and Safety

Ketamine has been used safely for over 50 years and has shown potential in improving symptoms of various psychiatric conditions and pain in certain populations. Individual responses to treatment will vary. While many individuals report improvements in psychiatric symptoms and pain, symptom relief cannot be guaranteed. Relief can last from days to months, necessitating multiple treatments for long-term effectiveness. There are no long-term studies establishing the safety or effectiveness of repeated ketamine treatments for chronic pain disorders, depression, PTSD, anxiety, and other psychiatric conditions.

Risks

All medical procedures and medications carry possible risks and side effects. Significant side effects are rare, but patients should be aware of all potential risks before starting treatment. Unknown or unexpected side effects or risks could also occur. Most side effects are mild and may include:

  • Bitter taste in mouth
  • Sedation
  • Somnolence
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Sensory illusions
  • Delirium
  • Tonic clonic movements resembling seizures
  • Elevations in blood pressure and heart rate
  • Laryngospasm
  • Urinary frequency, urgency, hesitancy, or burning
  • Increased saliva production
  • Restlessness
  • Impaired coordination
  • “Out of body” experiences
  • Twitching of arms and legs
  • Decreased appetite
  • Nausea and vomiting

Rare and serious side effects may include:

  • Blurred or double vision
  • Hives and allergic reaction
  • Increased ocular pressure
  • Hallucinations and flashbacks
  • Increased mania or hypomania in bipolar disorder
  • Increased suicidal thoughts and ideation
  • Cystitis
  • Slowing of heart rate
  • Irregular heart rhythm
  • Low blood pressure
  • Trouble breathing
  • Decreased respirations

Risk of Abuse and Tolerance

Ketamine carries a risk of abuse and tolerance, especially in individuals with a history of drug abuse or dependence. However, ketamine does not have a physiological withdrawal syndrome, and most patients do not develop cravings.

Administration Risks

There is a risk of dosing errors, drug interactions, and rare serious side effects that could require intubation, anaphylactic treatment, and/or hospitalization. It is crucial to be truthful about your medical history and all medications, supplements, or illicit drugs you are taking.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Ketamine should not be administered if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, could be pregnant, or trying to get pregnant, as it could harm the developing fetus.

Preparation for Treatment and Risk Management

Side effects of ketamine can include confusion or disorientation. To ensure safety, a responsible adult must be with you during the treatment and for 3 hours afterward.

Plan your treatment at times free of distraction and responsibility. Abstain from alcohol, cannabis, and other illicit substances for 24 hours before and after treatment. Avoid hot tubs, pools, saunas, or baths on the day of treatment. Do not make life-changing or legal decisions for up to 12 hours post-treatment. Avoid eating or drinking for 10 minutes after the troche dissolves. Refrain from operating heavy machinery or driving for 12-24 hours post-treatment.

You may take your regular medications on the day of treatment, except for:

  1. Stimulants that increase blood pressure and heart rate
  2. Benzodiazepines such as Xanax, Klonopin, or Ativan
  3. Lamictal (Lamotrigine)
  4. MAOIs

Notify your mental health and pain management providers about your ketamine treatment. Continue seeing your mental health provider and pain manager for ongoing therapy and treatment outside of ketamine therapy.

Post-Treatment Care

Schedule a mental health/therapy visit the day after a ketamine treatment to address any thoughts or past trauma that may arise. Seek hospital care for serious side effects. Call 911 for trouble breathing, seizure, suicidal thoughts, chest pain, uncontrolled heart rate or blood pressure, or signs of allergic reaction.

For assistance, message the physician via our Osmind application. Contact our admin team during normal business hours at 623-847-6652.

______________________________________________________________________________________________

Marijuana Use Disclaimer

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a psychoactive substance that can have various effects on physical and mental health. While marijuana is legal for medical and/or recreational use in some states, it remains classified as a Schedule I-controlled substance under federal law.

Medical Use

Marijuana has been approved for medical use in several states for conditions such as chronic pain, nausea associated with chemotherapy, multiple sclerosis spasticity, and other conditions. However, the FDA has not approved marijuana as a treatment for any medical condition.

Efficacy and Safety

Research on the efficacy and safety of marijuana is ongoing. While some studies suggest potential benefits for certain medical conditions, individual responses to marijuana can vary significantly. The long-term effects of marijuana use are not fully understood, and more research is needed to establish its safety and effectiveness.

Risks

All substances carry possible risks and side effects. The side effects of marijuana can vary depending on the strain, dosage, and individual factors. Patients should be aware of all potential risks before starting marijuana use. Unknown or unexpected side effects or risks could also occur. Most side effects are mild and may include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Euphoria
  • Increased appetite
  • Short-term memory impairment
  • Anxiety
  • Paranoia
  • Impaired coordination

Rare and serious side effects may include:

  • Psychosis
  • Increased heart rate
  • Low blood pressure
  • Respiratory issues from smoking or vaping
  • Addiction and dependence

Risk of Abuse and Dependence

Marijuana carries a risk of abuse and dependence, particularly in individuals with a history of substance abuse. While marijuana use does not typically lead to a physiological withdrawal syndrome, psychological dependence can occur. It is essential to use marijuana responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare provider if it is being used for medical purposes.

Administration Risks

The method of marijuana administration (smoking, vaping, edibles, etc.) can also impact the risk profile. Smoking or vaping can lead to respiratory issues, while edibles can result in delayed and unpredictable effects. It is crucial to follow dosage guidelines and be aware of the specific risks associated with different administration methods.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Marijuana should not be used if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, could be pregnant, or trying to get pregnant, as it could harm the developing fetus or newborn.

Preparation for Use and Risk Management

Side effects of marijuana can include confusion or disorientation. To ensure safety, avoid operating heavy machinery or driving for at least 24 hours after use. Plan your use at times free of major responsibilities and distractions.

Abstain from alcohol, other cannabis products, and illicit substances when using marijuana to prevent adverse interactions. It is important to be truthful about your medical history and all medications, supplements, or illicit drugs you are taking to avoid potential interactions and side effects.

Ongoing Care

Notify your healthcare providers about your marijuana use, especially if you are using it for medical purposes. Continue regular visits with your healthcare providers for ongoing therapy and treatment.

Emergency Situations

In case of serious side effects such as trouble breathing, chest pain, severe anxiety, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention or call 911.

For assistance or more information, contact your healthcare provider or a local marijuana dispensary knowledgeable about safe and responsible marijuana use.