What is Ketamine? 

Originally developed in the 1960’s Ketamine quickly became a go to anesthetic in the battlefields of Vietnam and has since became a very safe and effective medication for providing anesthesia in a wide range of patients. Although still unclear of exactly how Ketamine works, we do know that it works differently than the commonly prescribed antidepressant medications. Ketamine is thought to work on a neurotransmitter called glutamate in the brain.

How does ketamine help treat anxiety?

Ketamine infusions have been discovered to create new pathways and connections in the brain by releasing specific neurotransmitters. Scientists have found that exposure to stress over time kills off neurons in our brains. This extinction of neurons over time results in depression. Ketamine therapy actually stimulate the growth of these lost neurons within hours of an infusion leading to a decrease or complete cessation in anxiety related symptoms and more positive moods.

Another theory is that ketamine may help reduce the activity of certain brain areas that are overactive in people with anxiety, such as the amygdala, which is responsible for processing fear and other emotions.

It’s also known that ketamine interacts with the NMDA receptors in the brain, which are responsible for regulating glutamate activity. By blocking these receptors, ketamine can reduce the amount of glutamate that is released, which can reduce the overactivity of certain brain circuits that can be involved in anxiety development.

Overall, while the exact mechanism of action of ketamine in treating anxiety is still being studied, it has shown promise as a rapid-acting and effective treatment option for individuals with treatment-resistant anxiety.

Benefits of ketamine for anxiety

Multiple studies have shown that ketamine infusions can quickly reduce symptoms of anxiety and maintain these improvements for weeks after treatment. This treatment is especially useful for individuals with treatment-resistant anxiety who have exhausted other traditional treatment options.

In addition, ketamine has a lower risk of side effects compared to traditional antidepressants, which may cause weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and drowsiness. Ketamine is typically well-tolerated and has minimal long-term side effects.

How quickly does ketamine for anxiety work?

The duration of effects of ketamine for anxiety can vary depending on the individual, the dose, and the administration method. Some patients may experience relief same day that lasts for only a few hours, while others may have relief that lasts for several days. Additionally, the duration of the effects of ketamine can be influenced by other factors, such as the patient’s overall health, their response to previous treatments, and the presence of other comorbidities.

Stop letting anxiety have power over your life

If you’re tired of living with anxiety that seems to be overpowering your life, ketamine infusion therapy may be exactly what you need. With ketamine’s fast onset of action and lower risk of side effects, ketamine infusion therapy can provide the relief you need to regain control of your life.

Contact Restoration Wellness in Lebanon, TN, today to learn more about how ketamine infusion therapy for anxiety can help you get relief fast. Don’t wait any longer to take the first step toward getting your life back.