Ketamine is increasingly utilized as an effective treatment method for chronic pain conditions, mood disorders, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. As scientists discover the many benefits Ketamine offers, most people are unaware of its advantages and how it can improve people’s lives. If you are suffering from PTSD, anxiety, depression, or similar mental conditions, here are valid reasons why Ketamine Therapy can be beneficial.
Understanding Ketamine Therapy
A lot of people are asking their doctors, what is ketamine therapy? This novel , type of psychiatric treatment that uses the drug ketamine combined with psychotherapy to help people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders. Unlike traditional psychiatric drugs, ketamine begins to work within hours or even minutes.
Typically patients will undergo an evaluation and consultation, after which they are typically prescribed one to eight sessions of KAP or ketamine-assisted psychotherapy individual sessions. These sessions generally occur in person, however, some clinics do some portion of their sessions virtually. In some cases, certain sessions may be a group therapy environment. Your experience will vary based on your needs and which of the many providers who have begun focusing on this promising new therapy.
Benefits of Ketamine Therapy
It Works Fast
Unlike most other psychiatric medications, which can take weeks or even months to produce full effects, ketamine begins working within hours or days. For people suffering from suicidal ideation, ketamine has been shown to reduce these thoughts within 24 hours.
It Has a Good Safety Profile
Ketamine is considered one of the safest drugs available, both of its low potential for abuse and its limited side effects. Ketamine is not associated with any serious health risks when taken as prescribed.
It’s Effective for Treatment-Resistant Depression
One of the most promising aspects of ketamine therapy is its effectiveness in treating so-called “treatment-resistant depression.” This is a type of depression that does not respond to traditional antidepressant medications or other common treatments.
In fact, a recent study found that 70% of people with treatment-resistant depression who received ketamine therapy had a significant reduction in symptoms after just one week.
It May Help to Grow New Brain Cells
Ketamine has also been shown to promote neuroplasticity or the growth of new brain cells. This is a particularly exciting area of research, as it could lead to ketamine being used to treat degenerative neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
It May Help to Relieve Pain
In addition to its mood-boosting effects, ketamine has also been shown to be an effective pain reliever. It is commonly used as an anesthetic in both humans and animals. Recent studies have shown that it can effectively treat chronic pain conditions.
It Has a Long History of Safe Use
Ketamine has been used safely for over 50 years, first as an anesthetic in medical settings and as a party drug. This gives researchers a good understanding of its effects and how to minimize any risks.
It’s Increasingly Available
As ketamine’s potential becomes more widely recognized, it becomes increasingly available as a treatment option. Ketamine clinics are popping up around the country, and many insurance companies are starting to cover ketamine therapy.
Blocks Pain Signals
Besides treating anxiety, depression, and other health conditions, ketamine therapy blocks pain signals by binding to the NMDA receptor. This limits the ability of neurons to transmit pain signals. Ketamine also has a unique effect on the structure of neuronal membranes. This change in membrane structure reduces the number of painful sensations transmitted.
It is a potent anesthetic, and it is often used in surgeries and other procedures where pain relief is desired. Ketamine is also being investigated as a possible treatment for chronic pain conditions. The therapy is safe and effective for many people, and it may offer a new option for pain relief.
Fewer Side Effects
Ketamine has a good safety profile and is associated with fewer side effects than other drugs. This means that it can be taken for longer periods without worrying about the risks. Ketamine is also non-addictive, so there is no risk of developing a dependence on the drug.
Final Word
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety, or another mood disorder, ketamine therapy may be worth considering. Though more research is needed, the available evidence suggests that it could offer significant benefits with minimal risks. Talk to your doctor about whether ketamine therapy could be right for you.
