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 depression?

Ketamine works differently than traditional antidepressants, which typically target specific neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin or norepinephrine. Instead, ketamine affects a wide range of neurotransmitters and neural pathways which can ultimately help form new, healthy connections between nerve cells and pathways in the brain.

Another theory suggests that ketamine may also influence the activity of the body’s stress response system, which plays a role in regulating mood. In people with depression, these stress systems may become overactive, leading to chronic depressive symptoms like sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety. Ketamine can help reduce the systems activity, leading to improved depressive symptoms.

Benefits of ketamine for depression

Multiple studies have shown that ketamine infusions can quickly reduce symptoms of depression and maintain these improvements for weeks after treatment. This treatment is especially useful for individuals with treatment-resistant depression 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 depression work?

The duration of effects of ketamine for depression 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 depression have power over your life

If you’re tired of living with depression 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 depression can help you get relief fast. Don’t wait any longer to take the first step toward getting your life back.