Cancer Pain

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​​Ketamine, originally developed as an anesthetic for surgical procedures, has gained attention in recent years for its potential role in managing various types of pain, including pain related to cancer. Cancer pain can arise from the disease itself, its treatment, or even the psychological stress associated with a cancer diagnosis. For patients who experience severe pain that is not adequately managed by conventional treatments like opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ketamine may offer an alternative option.

 

The mechanism by which ketamine alleviates pain is multifaceted. It primarily works by blocking N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain, which are involved in the transmission of pain signals. By inhibiting these receptors, ketamine can disrupt the pain pathways, leading to a decrease in the perception of pain. 

 

Research studies support the use of ketamine in intractable cancer pain. In one study,  12 cancer patients with intractable pain who received ketamine infusions were able to reduce their total daily morphine use by 50%. What’s more is that in addition to ketamine’s own pain reducing effects it can also reverse opioid-induced hyperalgesia which leads to even more pain relief for the patient.  

 

In addition to its analgesic properties, ketamine has been found to have rapid antidepressant effects, which can be advantageous for cancer patients who may also be grappling with anxiety and depression.  By helping also with the  the emotional aspects of cancer ketamine can significantly impact a patient’s overall experience because addressing these psychological factors can enhance the effectiveness of pain management strategies.

 

Typically administered  in a clinical setting, ketamine can be given through various routes, including intravenous (IV) infusions, intranasal sprays, orally,  or even subcutaneous injections.  At Ketamine Center of Central Georgia, we generally prefer IV administration as it allows for the most precise dosing and gives us the ability to control how fast the medicine enters your body. The dosing regimen is tailored to each patient, taking into account their specific pain levels and overall health status. Many  patients report significant pain relief and improved quality of life, despite short-lived  side effects such as dissociation, dizziness, or nausea, which are carefully monitored by Dr. Greenberg and his staff.

 

In summary, while ketamine shows promise in managing cancer-related pain, especially in cases where traditional therapies are ineffective, it should be considered as part of a broader pain management plan tailored to the individual needs of each patient. Ongoing research continues to explore the full potential of ketamine in this context, aiming to refine its use and improve outcomes for cancer patients.

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If you would like to schedule a consultation to learn if ketamine can help you or a loved one, call 478.201.9220 or click here.

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