Ketamine was approved in 1970 as an anesthetic and is now used for pain, fibromyalgia, depression, migraines, CRPS, chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy, and post traumatic stress disorder. Ketamine works by inhibiting glutamate from binding to the NMDA-R receptor. It also has activity at norepinephrine, serotonin, muscarinic cholinergic, and voltage-sensitive calcium receptors.

Ketamine formulations available:

First line pain treatment options are typically oral pain medication. However, there are major concerns. Some of these include unanticipated side effects, prescription drug abuse, risk of overdose, patient non-adherence and lack of efficacy.

In addition, there are other challenges associated with oral pain medication related to gastrointestinal, renal, hepatic, cardiovascular issues, as well as sedation issues, decreased cognition, abuse, addiction, and general non-compliance.

Pain Creams are designed to administer high concentrations of pain medication directly into the site of pain for target relief. They provide quicker pain relief. It allows a much higher concentration of the actual medication to reach the tissue that needs it. This avoids the body’s “first-pass metabolism”, which can lead to the dangerous systemic side effects mentioned earlier. Doctors may customize these medications to meet the patient’s very unique needs.  Because the pain creams are applied topically, they do not circulate throughout the entire body. This means you have powerful pain medication where you need it and less where you don’t. As a result, pain creams are less likely to interact with other medications being taken, therefore causing fewer side effects than other pain medications. No side effects, no addiction, and more precision to the area in pain. Three most common side effects being avoided are drowsiness, dizziness, and stomach irritation.

Benefits of Transdermal Pain Medication: