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Writer's pictureAubrey Verdun, MD

Low-Dose Ketamine Shown to Help Opioid Withdrawal

At Freedom Ketamine Infusion Centers, we believe in providing compassionate, innovative care that brings hope to those in need. We’re excited to see newly-published research demonstrating the multifaceted uses for low-dose ketamine therapy. This time, the study shows a breakthrough in opioid addiction treatment that could offer relief to individuals struggling with fentanyl dependency.


A pilot study published in Addiction Science & Clinical Practice reveals that ultra-low-dose ketamine has the potential to curb withdrawal symptoms from fentanyl addiction, providing a smoother path toward recovery. This finding is especially significant given that drug overdose is the leading cause of injury deaths in young adults, with fentanyl contributing to over 70,000 deaths annually.


The primary obstacle many people face when attempting to quit fentanyl is the severity of withdrawal symptoms, including muscle cramps, nausea, chills, and overall feelings of malaise. While medications such as methadone and buprenorphine can reduce the risk of overdose death, accessing methadone can be difficult, and starting buprenorphine can lead to withdrawal symptoms as well. That’s where ketamine comes in.


Ketamine reduced withdrawal symptoms

The study, led by Dr. Lucinda Grande of the University of Washington School of Medicine, shows that a small dose of ketamine—at an imperceptible level—can significantly reduce or even eliminate withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to begin buprenorphine treatment. Over the 14-month study, 24 out of 37 fentanyl-addicted patients successfully tried ketamine, and 16 completed their transition to buprenorphine.


Of the last 12 patients who completed the transition, 92% remained in treatment for at least 30 days. This success suggests that ketamine can be an effective bridge for patients who fear the intense withdrawal that often comes with treatment.


Patients in the study received ketamine lozenges or syrup in very low doses—far below those typically used for anesthesia or even for treating depression, like Freedom Ketamine Treatment Centers offers in our offices. Most patients reported a reduction or elimination of withdrawal symptoms within hours of treatment.


Stethoscope and medical pills


It’s time to honor ketamine’s many off-label uses

While these findings are limited and preliminary, they offer tremendous hope for those struggling with opioid addiction, especially when combined with buprenorphine or other therapies. As Dr. Grande noted, “This is a wonderful opportunity to save lives.”


At Freedom Ketamine Infusion Centers, our Board-Certified Physicians are passionate about delivering the most advanced mental healthcare. If you or a loved one is considering onboarding ketamine infusion therapy for mental health conditions such as treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, or PTSD, schedule a free phone consultation with one of our doctors. Our team is here to guide you through a safe, supportive, and compassionate infusion process.


With six convenient offices in the DMV area, we’re ready to help you take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow. Reach out today to learn more about how ketamine infusion therapy can offer the support you need.


Photo by Derek Finch


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