Author: Hannah Gantt, LPCC
Ketamine is one example of a rapidly growing class of drugs called "glutamate modulators," which work by affecting the same neurotransmitter system as antidepressants like Prozac and Zoloft (SSRIs). The idea behind using these drugs is that if you can make your neurons more sensitive to glutamate when they need it most--during stressful situations--you'll feel less anxious and depressed overall.
The FDA approved ketamine's use as an anesthetic in 1970, but it wasn't until 2000 that scientists began studying the drug's potential use in treating depression and anxiety disorders. Today, ketamine is not approved by the FDA for treating mental health conditions, but many doctors are prescribing it off-label because they believe it can help treat depression, anxiety disorders and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Ketamine therapy, also known as ketamine-assisted psychotherapy or ketamine infusion therapy, is a treatment approach that utilizes the medication ketamine to address various mental health conditions. It involves the administration of ketamine in a controlled and therapeutic setting, often in conjunction with psychotherapy.
Ketamine works by modulating the brain's glutamate receptors, which can have a rapid antidepressant effect. It is believed to promote the growth of new synaptic connections and improve neural plasticity. Additionally, ketamine may induce a dissociative state, allowing individuals to gain insights and process emotions in a unique way.
During ketamine therapy, the individual will take a carefully calculated dose of ketamine, typically through ingesting lozenges called troches, nasal spray, intravenous infusion, or intramuscular injection. The dosage is adjusted based on the individual's needs and response. The session usually lasts for a short duration, ranging from minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the protocol and the specific condition being treated. During this time the individual is typically relaxed, with little to no distractions in the room so that their full attention can be on the session and its benefits. Practices such as breath work, meditation, and setting intentions are helpful before the session to ensure you are going into the session with the best mindset you can.
Who Might Ketamine Therapy Be Beneficial For?
The benefits of ketamine therapy can be significant for individuals who have not found relief from other treatments. It has shown effectiveness in rapidly reducing symptoms of treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While ketamine is not an antidepressant, it can be used as part of a treatment program including other psychiatric medications. If someone has not responded to traditional antidepressants or if they have depression that is severe enough to require hospitalization, ketamine may be recommended. The drug also offers hope for people who do not respond well to standard treatments like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). Ketamine therapy can provide quick relief, allowing individuals to experience a reduction in symptoms and an improved overall sense of well-being.
For those individuals who feel discouraged by not responding to traditional medications or therapies, ketamine therapy could be the key. It can be an alternative for those who require immediate relief due to the severity of their symptoms or who cannot tolerate the side effects of other treatments. Additionally, ketamine therapy may be beneficial for individuals who are seeking a novel approach to therapy or have a strong desire for a more transformative experience.
While ketamine therapy can be highly effective, it is important to acknowledge the potential risks. Ketamine can cause temporary side effects such as dissociation, hallucinations, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. There is also a risk of psychological dependency or abuse if not used under proper medical supervision. Long-term effects and safety considerations are still being studied, as ketamine therapy is a relatively new and evolving treatment approach.
It is crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional and undergo a comprehensive evaluation before considering ketamine therapy. They can provide personalized guidance, assess the potential risks and benefits, and determine whether ketamine therapy is an appropriate treatment option based on an individual's specific needs and medical history.
Ketamine is an exciting new treatment for depression and other mental disorders. Research has shown that it can be effective in treating these conditions, but there are still many questions to be answered about how best to use this drug. The most important thing to remember is that ketamine shouldn't be used alone as a stand-alone treatment for depression or any other mental illness; rather, it should be used in conjunction with other medications and psychotherapy approaches.
This blog is not medical advice or therapeutic advice but general knowledge to help you get the most out of your experiences with psychedelic therapy. At-home psychedelic therapy sessions with generic ketamine may be prescribed "off-label" for suitable candidates as an alternative pathway. Over the last two decades, research suggests that ketamine may be able to safely and effectively improve many treatment-resistant conditions. A form of ketamine, Esketamine (Spravato), is an FDA-approved medication for depression. Spravato treatments are only available in-person in our office. Our at-home programs include therapeutic guidance, safety protocols, breathwork, virtual treatment preparation and 1-on-1 integration coaching to get the most out of your sessions.
