I've read about ketamine and it's benefits to those with bipolar disorder. i am wondering if it can be prescribed for bipolar disorder by a doc?

As an: Anesthesiologist and experience in primary care medicine too i will recommend the use of ketamine as a last resort. A group of researchers at the national institute of mental health have studies proving efficacy, generating rapid antidepressant and antisuicidal effects. I don't think psychiatrist are using it yet for treatment. Talk to your physician for further discussion. Good luck.

Ketamine ; Bipolar?: Some studies show that IV ketamine given in highly specialized clinics can offer rapid relief in severe, treatment-resistant depression: http://tinyurl.Com/l76qma8 however, the beneficial results may not last more than a few days. It's an off-label use; there are risks of hallucinations, dissociation; long-term use can result in kidney damage also: http://tinyurl.Com/mwm897x.

Yes,: A medical doctor can prescribe any medication approved by the fda (unless the fda has placed restrictions) for any purpose he or she wants. Doctors practice medicine, the government does not. But, i stopped using ketamine many years' ago, patients did not like the medication.