Ketamine infusion therapy is a treatment option that has gained attention in recent years for its potential in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. This therapy involves administering ketamine, a medication that has been used for decades as an anesthetic in medical procedures, in controlled settings under the guidance of a trained professional.
How does ketamine work?
Ketamine works by interacting with specific receptors in the brain that are involved in regulating mood and emotions. It is thought to act on a neurotransmitter called glutamate, which is involved in regulating mood and anxiety. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take several weeks or months to start working, ketamine can provide rapid relief of symptoms.
What conditions can ketamine treat?
Ketamine is particularly effective in treating treatment-resistant depression, a form of depression that does not respond well to traditional treatments, such as antidepressants. Studies have shown that ketamine can provide rapid and significant improvement in symptoms of depression, often within hours of the first treatment. This is because ketamine works differently from traditional antidepressants and targets different neurotransmitters in the brain. It can help to alleviate symptoms even in those for whom traditional treatments have been ineffective.
In addition to its effectiveness in treating depression, ketamine has also been studied for its potential in treating anxiety disorders, particularly in those with treatment-resistant anxiety. Research has suggested that ketamine may work by altering the activity of the neurotransmitter glutamate, which is involved in regulating mood and anxiety. Studies have shown that ketamine infusion therapy can reduce anxiety symptoms, often within hours of the first treatment.
Emerging research has also found that ketamine may effectively treat PTSD, particularly in veterans. PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Traditional treatment options, such as talk therapy and medication, may sometimes be ineffective. Ketamine is thought to work by interrupting the way the brain processes traumatic memories, which can help to alleviate symptoms of PTSD.
Ketamine has also been studied for its potential to treat chronic pain conditions. Chronic pain is a complex and often debilitating condition that is not well treated by traditional pain medications. Studies have suggested that ketamine may work by altering how the brain processes pain signals, which can help reduce pain perception.
What to expect during a ketamine infusion therapy session
During a ketamine infusion therapy session, the patient will be monitored by a trained professional while receiving the medication through an IV. Each session usually lasts between 40-90 minutes, with patients receiving several sessions over a period of time. The number of sessions and the duration of treatment will vary depending on the individual’s needs.
Safety concerns
Ketamine is considered safe when administered by a trained professional in a controlled setting. However, as with any medication, there are potential side effects, including confusion, hallucinations, and high blood pressure. These side effects are typically mild and short-lived, and the benefits of ketamine infusion therapy often outweigh the potential risks.
Where to receive ketamine therapy
When considering ketamine infusion therapy, it’s important to find a provider with the training and expertise to administer the medication and safely provide compassionate care. Cleveland Medical Institute offers a team of highly trained providers and comprehensive, safe, and effective ketamine treatment options. They are the best choice for those seeking ketamine infusion therapy.