Ketamine for Parkinson’s disease is being studied as a new way to help manage certain symptoms. Parkinson’s affects the brain cells that help control movement. As a result, people may experience shaking, stiffness, slow movement, or trouble walking. Parkinson’s can also affect mood, sleep, thinking, digestion, and overall quality of life.

Many people with Parkinson’s use medications such as levodopa to control symptoms. However, these treatments may become less effective over time or cause unwanted movements called dyskinesia. Because of this, researchers are studying ketamine for Parkinson’s as another possible option. Ketamine works on different brain signals than standard Parkinson’s drugs. It is also being studied for depression and movement problems linked to Parkinson’s disease. At Therapeutic Alternatives in West Jordan, Utah, we provide personalized ketamine therapy in a safe and supportive setting. To schedule a free consultation, call (385) 685-1410 or fill out our online form.

Benefits of Ketamine for Parkinson’s Disease

Ketamine for Parkinson’s may help support several areas affected by the condition. Some of the possible benefits of ketamine treatment can include:

Tremor management
Improve motor function
Treat depression
Pain relief
It does not affect the respiratory system
Near instant effects
Minimal side effects

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Ketamine for Parkinson’s in Clinical Research

Clinical studies show ketamine for Parkinson’s provides safe, satisfying results in overall symptom treatment. One case report states: “Ketamine provided immediate resolution of dyskinesias in a patient with severe PD…our experience would suggest that it is specifically the NMDA-antagonist properties of low-dose ketamine, titrated to effect, that might provide optimal patient comfort and control of symptoms in the preoperative setting in patients with severe PD.

Furthermore, anesthesiologists should consider low-dose ketamine as a safe, novel, and useful temporary adjunct to long-term treatment…” One patient reported that her symptoms were under better control and she experienced no adverse effects of ketamine after surgery. The report goes on to explain that although effective symptom relief occurs, current treatments for Parkinson’s may have long-term negative effects.

On May 17, 2021, it was announced that the FDA approved an investigational new drug from PharmaTher for ketamine in the treatment of “levodopa-induced dyskinesia in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), with a phase 2 clinical trial on the way.” Ongoing studies by Yale Medicine and the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research are testing the effect ketamine has on depression that comes with Parkinson’s disease.

How Ketamine for Parkinson’s Works

Ketamine for Parkinson’s works by affecting signals in the brain. First, Parkinson’s disease affects brain cells that make dopamine. Dopamine helps control smooth and steady movement. As dopamine levels drop, movement may become slower or harder. Parkinson’s drugs can help with these symptoms. However, their effects may change over time.

Ketamine for Parkinson’s works in a different way. Instead of replacing dopamine, ketamine affects other brain signals. In fact, researchers are studying how this may help control unwanted movements. For example, ketamine may help with dyskinesia from long-term levodopa use. Dyskinesia causes movements that are hard to control. However, more research is still needed to understand these effects.

What to Expect During Ketamine Treatment for Parkinson’s

Ketamine treatment for Parkinson’s starts with a review of your health and symptoms. First, your provider will discuss your medical history and current medications. This helps the care team create a treatment plan based on your needs. At Therapeutic Alternatives, ketamine may be given through an IV or an injection.

During treatment, the care team will monitor you closely. A typical session lasts about 40 to 60 minutes. During this time, you may feel relaxed or notice changes in how you think or feel. After treatment, you will have time to recover before going home. Additionally, your provider will track your response over time and adjust your treatment plan when needed.

Is Ketamine Safe for People With Parkinson’s?

Ketamine for Parkinson’s is given under medical supervision to help support safety. Before treatment, a provider reviews your health history, medications, and current symptoms. During each session, the care team monitors vital signs and how you respond. This is especially important for people with blood pressure or heart concerns.

Ketamine for Parkinson’s may cause short-term side effects. These can include dizziness, nausea, changes in blood pressure, or feeling disconnected from your surroundings. However, these effects are usually watched closely during treatment. A medical evaluation can help determine if ketamine for Parkinson’s is a safe option based on your health and needs.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Ketamine for Parkinson’s?

Ketamine for Parkinson’s may be an option for people who still have symptoms with standard care. For example, some people may struggle with depression, pain, or unwanted movements. Others may have side effects from their current Parkinson’s drugs. In these cases, ketamine treatment may offer another option to explore.

However, ketamine is not right for everyone. A provider will first review your health, symptoms, and current medications. They may also ask about heart problems, blood pressure, or other health concerns. Most importantly, treatment should be based on each person’s needs and health history.

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Ketamine for Parkinson’s Near Me | Therapeutic Alternatives in SLC and West Jordan, UT

Ketamine for Parkinson’s may offer another option for people seeking symptom support. At Therapeutic Alternatives, we provide personalized ketamine therapy in a safe and supportive setting. Ketamine may also be used to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, OCD, and other mood-related concerns. Our team serves patients in Salt Lake City, West Jordan, and nearby areas throughout Utah.

If you are searching for ketamine for Parkinson’s near you, we can help you learn more about your options. Schedule a consultation to discuss your symptoms, health history, and treatment goals. Call (385) 685-1410 or fill out the online form below to get started.