KETAMINE FOR DEPRESSION
KETAMINE FOR DEPRESSION IS AN INNOVATIVE AND EFFECTIVE TREATMENT
Since the 1990s, ketamine for depression has grown rapidly in popularity, quickly gaining a reputation as one of the most effective treatments for depression available. Delivered intravenously, IV ketamine infusions provide lasting relief to about 70% of depressed patients, even those who have tried other treatments to no avail. Furthermore, ketamine works rapidly to alleviate the symptoms of depression, oftentimes within hours of the first infusion.
Decades of research show that ketamine works differently in the brain than other antidepressant medications, essentially helping the brain to repair neural connections that have been damaged by years of mental health dysfunction. Ketamine works on the brain’s glutamate system, rather than by helping the brain produce more serotonin.
Ketamine infusions are not right for everyone. However, if you have tried two or more depression treatments and have not found an effective solution, we urge you to learn more about ketamine therapy.
IV ketamine has been described as a “reset” button for the brain, allowing it to reboot…and enabling patients to experience life without the veil of depression.
Highly Effective Depression Treatment
Ketamine is effective for up to 70% of patients, even those with treatment-resistant depression.
Rapid Relief from Symptoms
Ketamine for depression works rapidly, and most patients will know whether ketamine is effective for them within 1-2 infusions.
Safe & Non-Addictive
When administered in a clinical setting by a medical professional, ketamine is incredibly safe. In fact, it has been on the World Health Organization’s list of essential medications for decades due to its analgesic qualities.
KETAMINE INFUSIONS ARE EFFECTIVE FOR THE TREATMENT OF MANY DIFFERENT TYPES OF DEPRESSION
Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)
Patients who have not found relief from standard antidepressant medications have experienced significant improvements with ketamine therapy.
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Ketamine has shown rapid antidepressant effects in individuals with MDD, often providing relief within hours of administration
Bipolar Depression
Studies indicate that ketamine can alleviate depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder, offering a new avenue for those unresponsive to other treatments.
FAQs ABOUT KETAMINE FOR DEPRESSION
What is ketamine therapy?
Ketamine therapy is a cutting-edge treatment that involves administering low doses of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, to help manage mental health conditions like treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
How does ketamine for depression work?
Ketamine works for people with depression by targeting the brain’s glutamate system, which plays a key role in mood regulation, learning, and memory. Unlike traditional antidepressants that primarily affect serotonin or dopamine levels, ketamine stimulates the production of glutamate, the brain’s most abundant neurotransmitter. This triggers a chain of events that helps the brain form new neural connections, essentially rewiring itself.
How quickly does ketamine provide relief from the symptoms of depression?
Many patients report relief within hours of the first infusion. Most become aware whether or not ketamine is effective for them after 1-2 infusions.
Is ketamine therapy safe?
When administered in a clinical setting by medical professionals, ketamine is considered safe and non-addictive. It has been on the World Health Organization’s list of essential medications for decades due to its analgesic qualities.
Who is a candidate for ketamine therapy?
Individuals who have tried two or more depression treatments without effective results may be candidates for ketamine therapy.
Are there any side effects associated with ketamine for depression?
Some patients may experience side effects such as elevated blood pressure, nausea, or perceptual disturbances during the infusion. However, these effects are typically transient and will be closely monitored by healthcare professionals.
How long do the effects of ketamine last?
The duration of ketamine’s antidepressant effects can vary. Some patients may experience relief lasting several days to weeks, while others might require maintenance infusions to sustain the benefits.
Is ketamine for depression covered by insurance?
Coverage for ketamine therapy varies depending on insurance provider and plan. We are not in-network with any insurance providers. It’s advised to consult with your insurance company to determine if this treatment is covered under your policy.
How should I prepare for a ketamine infusion?
Patients are advised to avoid solid foods, orange or pulp-filled juices, or soups/broths for five hours before the infusion. Clear liquids may be consumed up to two hours prior. It’s crucial to avoid alcohol, drugs, and other narcotics before the treatment, as they can be dangerous in combination with ketamine.
What other conditions can ketamine therapy treat?
Beyond depression, ketamine infusions have been effective in treating anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), pain syndromes, and certain addiction disorders.
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Request a Free Consultation
Are you a candidate for ketamine infusions or psychiatric services? Request a free evaluation with Dr. Randy Freeman and find out how we can help you achieve your mental, emotional, and behavioral goals.
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Tuesday: 9am-5pm
Wednesday: 9am-8pm
Thursday: 9am-5pm
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