A drug that got its real start on the battlefield and in operating rooms a half-century ago may not feel like a cutting-edge breakthrough for major depression. If your only experience with ketamine is knowing its association with recreational use, you may be even less inclined to believe it could be such an incredibly powerful tool. Research shows even those with treatment-resistant depression can benefit dramatically from ketamine infusions use in a controlled, clinical setting. Put aside everything you thought you knew about ketamine, and learn how it can really be used to improve your life in Costa Mesa.
What is Ketamine, and How Does it Help with Depression?
Ketamine is primarily used as an anesthetic, both in humans and animals. Unlike other anesthetics, which slow breathing and heart rate to dangerously low levels without ventilators and other intervention, ketamine does not affect the heart and breathing. This makes it the ideal choice for a surgical procedures, but there’s more than meets the eye.
By an as-yet unknown mechanism, ketamine can and does cause many patients to report better quality of life, reduction of symptoms and thoughts of self-harm. The antidepressant effect it causes expresses through a new mechanism, meaning it may be able to succeed as a treatment for depression where other drugs have failed.
While researchers haven’t yet pinned down exactly what makes ketamine such a useful treatment against depression, but they have some ideas. The likely target inside the brain for ketamine is NMDA receptors. When ketamine binds to these receptors, the resulting effect seems to be a boost in glutamate, a neurotransmitter, in the spaces between the neurons. After activating connections in the NMDA receptors, molecules of neurons communicate with one another along a new pathway. Through the process of synaptogenesis, cognition, mood and thought patterns are likely affected.
The Side Effects of Ketamine for Depression
During the infusion, some people do experience high blood pressure, nausea and vomiting. Dissociation, sometimes called an “out of body experience,” is a rare but sometimes reported side effect. Perceptual disturbances are relatively common. Noises and sounds can be more stimulating than they would under normal circumstances, while time can feel as if it is either slowing dramatically or speeding up quickly. Textures, colors and patterns can also feel more stimulating than usual while the infusion is in process.
Most of the time, though, these side effects are only present during the first experience. Dissociation and changes in perception are most noticeable during the first infusion and disappear quickly after the infusion ends.
What Ketamine IV Therapy Breakthroughs Can Mean for You
If you or a loved one in Costa Mesa has been living with major depression, especially that of the treatment-resistant variety, you know how difficult it can be to maintain any semblance of a normal life. Ketamine may be able to help lessen the effects of major depression. The dosage level of ketamine for depression is also far lower than the level required for anesthesia. For patients who do have satisfactory results, they tend to respond to the treatment within one to three infusions.
Those patients who respond favorably to ketamine for depression seem more likely to extend the positive effects if treatment is repeated regularly.
Dr. David and the professional care team he leads are highly knowledgeable about ketamine and its effects. Each patient is given a customized ketamine therapeutic protocol designed to the needs of their body. Curious about ketamine for depression? Contact Ketamine Healing Clinic of Orange County for more information, and set up what could be your first step on a path toward meaningful symptom reduction.
