Ketamine for Migraines: Can Ketamine Therapy Help Chronic Migraine Pain?

Ketamine for migraines may help some people find relief from chronic migraine pain and severe headache disorders. Many patients consider ketamine therapy after medications, Botox, or other treatments have not provided enough relief. Unlike most migraine treatments, ketamine works by affecting pain signals in the brain and nervous system. Because of this, some patients may notice improvements within hours or days of treatment.

 

At Ketamine Therapy SLC in West Jordan, UT, our team helps patients explore new treatment options for chronic pain and migraine conditions. Care is led by Austin Francom, APRN, FNP, with support from Candace Curzon, LCSW. To learn more about ketamine therapy for migraines or schedule a free 15-minute consultation, call (385) 685-1410 or fill out a form.

What Are Chronic Migraines?

Migraines are more than bad headaches. They are a condition that affects the brain and nervous system. Migraine attacks can cause severe pain and other symptoms. According to the American Migraine Foundation, migraines are a disabling disease that affects over 40 million people in the United States. 

 

A person has chronic migraines when headaches happen at least 15 days each month. At least eight of those headaches must have migraine symptoms. Common symptoms include:

  • Moderate to severe head pain
  • Throbbing or pulsing pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Sensitivity to sound
  • Dizziness
  • Vision changes
  • Fatigue

How Does Ketamine Therapy Work for Migraines?

Ketamine for migraines works differently than most migraine treatments. Instead of only treating migraine symptoms, ketamine affects how the brain and nervous system respond to pain signals. Researchers believe this may help some people with long-term migraines.

 

Ketamine blocks receptors called NMDA receptors. These receptors help send signals linked to migraine pain. By blocking these signals, ketamine may help reduce the body’s response to pain. Researchers also believe ketamine may help calm overactive nerve pathways that contribute to chronic migraines. More research is still needed, but early studies have shown promising results.

Ketamine for Migraines Research and Studies

Research on ketamine for migraines is still growing. However, several studies have shown promising results. Most research has focused on people with chronic migraines that did not improve with standard treatments.

 

A 2016 study published in The National Library of Medicine found that intravenous ketamine helped reduce pain in patients with severe chronic migraines that had not responded to other therapies. In addition, a review published on PubMed found that ketamine may also help some patients with status migrainosus, which is a severe migraine attack that lasts longer than 72 hours. Although more research is needed, early findings suggest that ketamine therapy may help some people with difficult-to-treat migraine conditions. 

Who May Benefit From Ketamine Therapy for Migraines?

Although promising, ketamine for migraines is not usually considered a first-line treatment option. However, it may help people who have not found relief through other treatments. A person may be a good candidate if they:

  • Have chronic migraines
  • Have headaches more than 15 days each month
  • Have tried several medications without relief
  • Have tried Botox without success
  • Have tried CGRP medications without relief
  • Have headaches caused by using pain medicine too often
  • Have chronic pain along with migraines
  • Want an alternative to opioid medications

What Happens During Ketamine Treatment?

Ketamine for migraines treatment begins with a medical visit. During this appointment, the provider reviews your symptoms, health history, and past migraine treatments. This helps determine whether ketamine therapy may be a good option.

 

During treatment, ketamine is given through an IV. Patients relax in a private treatment room while medical staff monitor them closely. Many people describe the experience as calm, peaceful, or dreamlike. Some people feel deeply relaxed, while others notice changes in their thoughts, senses, or awareness of time. Most patients remain awake and can communicate with staff if needed.

 

Most ketamine treatments last between 40 and 60 minutes with a two-hour appointment window. After treatment, patients often spend a short time resting before going home. Because ketamine can affect coordination and reaction time, patients should arrange for someone else to drive them home.

What Are the Side Effects of Ketamine Therapy for Migraines?

Ketamine for migraines is generally well tolerated when given by trained medical professionals. Most side effects are short-term and improve shortly after treatment. Possible side effects  may include:

  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Increased blood pressure
  • A temporary dreamlike feeling

How Is Ketamine Different From Other Migraine Treatments?

Most migraine treatments focus on stopping migraine attacks or preventing future attacks. Common treatments include triptans, Botox injections, and CGRP medications.

 

Ketamine for migraines works in a different way. It affects how the brain processes pain signals. Because of this, ketamine may help some people whose migraines have not improved with standard treatments. It may offer another option when other treatments have not provided lasting relief.

Ketamine for Migraines FAQS

The number of treatments varies from person to person. Many patients begin with a series of treatments over several weeks. Some people notice improvement after only a few sessions, while others need additional treatments. Some patients also benefit from maintenance treatments over time.

Some patients notice improvements within hours or days after treatment. Others may require several sessions before they experience relief. The timing of results depends on factors such as migraine severity, how long symptoms have been present, and previous treatments.

The length of relief varies from person to person. Some patients experience relief for days or weeks after treatment. Others may benefit from maintenance treatments to help manage long-term migraine symptoms.

Ketamine has been studied for status migrainosus, which is a severe migraine attack that lasts longer than 72 hours. Early research has shown promising results in some patients. However, larger studies are still needed.

Many patients continue taking their current migraine medications during ketamine therapy. However, treatment plans vary from person to person. A provider will review all medications before treatment begins.

Insurance coverage varies depending on the provider and treatment plan. Many ketamine treatments for migraines are considered out-of-pocket expenses. Patients should check with their insurance company to learn more about coverage options.

Ketamine for Migraines Cost, Utah

The cost of ketamine for migraines depends on the type of treatment and the number of sessions needed. Many patients begin with a series of treatments, while others may benefit from ongoing maintenance sessions. The best treatment plan depends on each person’s symptoms, goals, and response to care.

 

At Ketamine Therapy SLC, all treatment prices include the initial intake and medical exam. Most treatments are self-pay, although health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) may be used. Payment plans may also be available. To view current pricing, packages, and discounts, visit our Ketamine Treatment Cost page or call (385) 685-1410 to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.

Ketamine for Migraines Near Me | West Jordan, UT

Living with chronic migraines can be exhausting. Many people spend years trying different treatments without finding lasting relief. If migraines continue to affect daily life, ketamine for migraines may be another option to consider. At Ketamine Therapy SLC, we proudly serve patients throughout Salt Lake City, West Jordan, Sandy, Draper, South Jordan, Cottonwood Heights, and nearby communities. To learn more, call (385) 685-1410 to schedule a complimentary consultation.