IV Ketamine Infusions, The Gold Standard
Over the last 3 decades, ketamine has undergone extensive study for its efficacy in treating depression and other mental health conditions through different methods of administration. Here at Reset Restore MD, we provide scientifically proven intravenous ketamine treatments to our patients. IV ketamine infusions are considered the “gold standard” treatment route compared to other delivery methods such as ketamine nasal sprays or lozenges. There are many reasons why IV ketamine is superior to other methods of administration.
A study conducted in 2021, emphasizes the importance of “calibration of the ketamine dosage to ensure an enhanced opportunity for adaptive neural rewiring, cognitive reorganization, and possible access to a peak, mystical, or otherwise meaningful experience.” We calibrate each infusion based on patient’s weight allowing additional adjustments based on patient’s response to treatment providing individual and tailored treatment plans.
#1 Bioavailability
The bioavailability of IV ketamine is 100%. What does this mean? We are able to calculate a precise dose specific to you. 100% of that determined dose is able to target receptors in the brain promoting positive change, thus translating to improvement in symptoms. Bioavailability is the amount of the medication given that is able to have an active effect on the body. Oral and intranasal medications have a significantly lower bioavailability as they are metabolized, or broken down, while they make their way to their targeted area.
Bioavailability of alternative routes of ketamine administration:
- Oral: 13-24%
- Sublingual: 30%
- Intranasal: 25-50%
- Intramuscular: 93%
- Intravenous: 100%
#2 Decades of Research
IV ketamine as a treatment for depression has decades of research. This translates into evidence-based dosing and frequency recommendations producing superior results compared to oral and sublingual.
#3 Increased Safety
With IV ketamine, you receive an infusion over 40 minutes. You are able to stop the infusion at any point. With other routes of administration, there is no stopping the experience.
#4 More Effective Than Oral Treatments
There is limited evidence regarding the effectiveness of oral and sublingual ketamine. Additionally limited data regarding recommendations for dose and frequency.
In review of a recent meta-analysis study:
- There is no substantial evidence for a strong recommendation for oral ketamine
- There is no consensus among the researchers of a standardized dose and/or frequency of oral ketamine for depression.
- Doses amongst providers who provide oral ketamine vary greatly
- Oral ketamine showed borderline efficacy for major depression
One Size Does Not Fit All
At Reset Restore MD, you get the gold standard intravenous ketamine infusions. We precisely dose each infusion to provide optimal results. Many other clinics will utilize a one-size-fits-all approach utilizing administration routes that are not efficacious.
There is a body of research that supports the premise that the quality or intensity of a psychedelic experience is associated with better therapeutic outcomes. Using science to guide our practice, we will utilize treatment protocols with proven results.
Read more on the study: An Update on the Efficacy and Tolerability of Oral Ketamine for Major Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis