Ketamine for Migraine Personal Journey

Ketamine for Migraine Personal Journey

Ketamine: A Game Changer for Chronic Migraine

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Nikki S. was angry. Years of trying various migraine treatments had left her frustrated and desperate to regain control of her life. Her doctors suggested she try ketamine, but she was hesitant. Known as “special K” in the past, she didn’t want to be associated with a drug that had a shady reputation. However, the debilitating effects of chronic migraines pushed her to reconsider.

Nikki’s symptoms had escalated after she suffered a serious concussion from a train accident in 2016. Throbbing pain in her head, jaw, neck, and sinus area, coupled with other symptoms like light sensitivity and phantom smells, made it impossible for her to lead a normal life. Her work suffered, and she even came close to losing her job. Socially, she felt isolated and lost friends who didn’t understand the extent of her suffering.

“People just constantly dismiss you and think, ‘Oh, it’s just a headache’,” Nikki explains. “No! It’s so much more than that. It is a full-body disease. It impacts every aspect of my life.”

Standard medications and therapies provided only temporary relief for Nikki. In June 2021, after much consideration and research, she decided to try ketamine. To her surprise, it turned out to be a game-changer. A five-day infusion of ketamine in a hospital setting managed to control her migraine symptoms and provided relief for 3 to 4 months. Not only did it eliminate many of her symptoms, but it also made the remaining ones easier to manage.

Stephanie J. Nahas, MD, associate professor of neurology at Thomas Jefferson University, explains that ketamine infusions can be particularly effective for patients with intractable, treatment-resistant, chronic migraines like Nikki. However, she emphasizes the importance of carefully considering the risks and benefits before prescribing ketamine. Patients with certain medical histories and specific psychiatric diagnoses may not be suitable candidates for the drug.

While ketamine may offer relief, it is not without risks. Ketamine is a controlled substance with high abuse potential. Improper use can lead to unconsciousness and serious liver, spinal cord, and brain damage. Additionally, ketamine can cause side effects such as intoxication, nausea, sleepiness, visual disturbances, hallucinations, and mood changes. Despite the risks, some patients find that the benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks.

More research is needed to fully understand the efficacy of ketamine for migraines. Steven P. Cohen, MD, professor of anesthesiology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, stresses the importance of conducting comprehensive studies to determine the ideal treatment approach for patients. However, he acknowledges that for some patients, the reward may justify the potential risks.

For Nikki, ketamine has made a significant difference in her life. The treatment has given her the opportunity to pursue her passion for nursing, fueled by her own experience as a migraine patient. Having encountered dismissive healthcare providers throughout her journey, she wants to provide the kind of care that goes above and beyond for her patients.

“I love the idea of being able to work directly with patients because I know what it’s like to be on the other end,” Nikki says. As she embarks on her journey to become a nurse, she aims to advocate for others during their most challenging times.

Ketamine may offer hope for those plagued by chronic migraines, but it is crucial for individuals to carefully consider the risks and benefits before starting treatment. Consulting with knowledgeable healthcare professionals can help determine if ketamine is a suitable option for each individual’s unique situation.

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