Accessing Medicine for Traumatic Brain Injuries in Baltimore

Over the past few decades, doctors have made notable improvements in the detection and treatment of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). New treatment options emerge every day, giving patients hope for the future. If you have suffered a TBI in Baltimore, you might be keeping an eye on these new developments. New medicine could help you recover from your TBI. But how do you access this expensive treatment?

Psychedelics: An Emerging Option for TBI Treatment 

In April of 2024, National Geographic published an article on the emerging use of psychedelics in TBI treatment. Doctors have been exploring the benefits of these substances for a few years, and researchers have focused on a few specific drugs. While psychedelics are perhaps best known for their recreational use, their medical potential is beginning to go mainstream.

Ibogaine is a psychoactive alkaloid present in the Tabernanthe iboga shrub. This plant grows in West Central Africa, and it has been used traditionally by the local indigenous people for thousands of years. Doctors today understand that Ibogaine can improve symptoms for TBI patients. Military veterans with TBIs have reported lowered PTSD, depression, and anxiety after using ibogaine in clinical trials. Some disabled veterans also improved their symptoms to such a degree that they were no longer disabled by the end of the trial. Cognitive testing showed increases in concentration, memory, and information processing. There were no notable side effects.

Branched Chain Amino Acid Supplements for Concussion Recovery

 A new study in the Journal of Neurotrauma explored the use of “branched chain amino acid (BCAA) supplements” for concussion treatment. The teenagers who participated in the trial showed faster recovery times with BCAA supplements. Before this study, BCAA supplementation had shown improved neurocognitive ability in animal testing. After receiving high doses of this medication, the teens were able to return to physical activity sooner. Researchers concluded by suggesting further trials to explore this medication in more detail.

“Cocoon Therapy” Is Being Called into Question 

While new treatment options emerge, others fall out of favor. For many years, doctors recommended rest and social isolation after TBIs. The logic behind this “cocoon therapy” was that it gave patients enough time to heal without too much stimulation of the brain. However, new research shows that social activities can accelerate the healing process. Now, doctors are more likely to recommend a quick return to school, work, and sports after TBIs. Combined with effective medication, this strategy could help improve symptoms and speed up recovery times.

Get the Compensation You Need to Access TBI Medications 

If you’re serious about treating your TBI, compensation could be critical. If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, it may be easier to access life-changing medicine than you realize. During a consultation with a Baltimore brain injury attorney, you can discuss the most effective ways to cover your healthcare bills. Furman Honick Law works with your doctors, pursuing access to new treatment options on your behalf. Reach out today and speak with a partner for a free case evaluation.

Sources: 

nationalgeographic.com/premium/article/severe-brain-injury-unprecedented-therapy-psychedelic

psychologytoday.com/us/blog/addiction-outlook/202404/a-possible-cure-for-addiction-and-traumatic-brain-injury

medicalxpress.com/news/2024-03-professor-discusses-concussion-treatment.html