In years past, ketamine was often used in medicine as a sedative or pain killer, or abused as a club drug for these same properties. However, recent scientific breakthroughs have elevated Ketamine from a painkiller or sedative used in medical procedures to treatment for depression. The treatment of mood disorders is extremely complex, but ketamine infusion has offered hope, relief, and happiness for many. Here’s what you should know about this wonder drug:
How Ketamine Works
Ketamine binds to NMDA receptors in the brain, increasing the amount of a neurotransmitter called glutamate. This increase in glutamate occurs between neurons in the brain, prompting AMPA receptors to release other molecules that foster communication along new pathways. This process, known as synaptogenesis, can inspire different thought patterns, moods, and increase cognition.
Ketamine and Depression
When administered in lower doses, ketamine has proved to be extremely beneficial in treating some forms of severe depression. Its medicinal properties are powerful; therefore, ketamine should only be utilized as treatment under the careful supervision of a medical physician.
To treat depression, ketamine is administered through an IV. Patients usually respond after one to three infusions if the treatment is right for them. When this occurs, subsequent sessions and boosters have been shown to extend the relief received from this procedure. If no response occurs, a ketamine infusion may not be the solution to the patient’s mood disorder.
Is Ketamine legal?
Ketamine is a Schedule III drug, implying that it is legal for medical professionals and clinics to administer it, following certain stringent requirements. Recreational use of ketamine is illegal and anyone in possession of the substance without a prescription is at risk of legal action. Ketamine has a low physical addiction risk, but high psychological addiction risk if abused illegally.
Is Ketamine Infusion for Depression Safe?
Ketamine is an FDA-approved anesthetic that has been used safely for decades. Additionally, individuals suffering from severe pain who were given ketamine instead of morphine were at a lower risk of developing PTSD afterwards.
Our Infuse Ketamine clinic is run by two board-certified, medical doctors who have witnessed the efficacy of ketamine to treat mood disorders like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. For patients who have not received relief from SSRIs, counseling, and other forms of treatment, ketamine can be a safe alternative to more drastic measures, like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
Your health and safety will always remain our top priority. Dr. Ibrahim first consults with each patient to ensure that ketamine infusion could be a possible avenue for treatment. The treatment method involves administering ketamine in an ultra-low dose in the comfort and safety of the clinic, under constant supervision of medical professionals.
If you have struggled with PTSD, anxiety, or depression and have been unable to find consistent relief, ketamine infusion therapy may be an option for you. Contact us today to learn more or book an initial consultation.
